Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures in the spine. Here are the detailed steps involved in performing a kyphoplasty:
1. Patient Preparation: The patient is positioned face down on the operating table and given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the procedure will be performed.
2. Fluoroscopy: The surgeon uses a fluoroscope, a special type of X-ray machine, to visualize the area of the spine where the fracture is located.
3. Insertion of the Trocar: A small incision is made in the back, and a narrow tube called a trocar is inserted into the fractured vertebra under fluoroscopic guidance.
4. Balloon Inflation: A small balloon is inserted through the trocar and carefully inflated inside the fractured vertebra. The balloon helps to create a cavity and restore the height of the vertebra.
5. Cement Injection: Once the cavity is created, the balloon is deflated and removed, and a special bone cement (usually made of polymethylmethacrylate) is injected into the cavity under controlled pressure. The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the fractured vertebra and providing pain relief.
6. Closure: The trocar is removed, and the small incision is closed with sutures or steri-strips.
7. Post-Operative Care: The patient is monitored for a short period in the recovery area and then usually discharged the same day. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure.
It is important to note that kyphoplasty should only be performed by a trained and experienced spine surgeon. The procedure may not be appropriate for all patients, and alternative treatments should be considered based on the individual’s medical history and condition. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with kyphoplasty, so patients should discuss the procedure thoroughly with their healthcare provider before making a decision.