How Can Kyphoplasty Correct Curvature of the Spine?

Whether due to a vertebral compression fracture (VCF), scoliosis, or another condition, some men and women develop curvature of the spine. This is commonly seen in patients with osteoporosis, as they are more susceptible to spinal compression fractures. Although spine surgery is an effective option for addressing the pain and curvature associated with compression fractures, it does come with risks and inconveniences, like the need for general anesthesia, a hospital stay (in some cases), and a dedicated recovery period. At Lewis Pain & Physical Medicine in Frisco, TX, pain management specialist and anesthesiologist Dr. Jerry Lewis believes patients deserve rapid, reliable, convenient relief from their compression fracture symptoms and is proud to offer the minimally invasive kyphoplasty technique for correcting spinal curvature and restoring comfort and improved mobility.

Who needs kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty can be an effective and appropriate treatment for patients who have suffered a recent vertebral compression fracture and desire a less invasive alternative to spine surgery. Patients with more advanced conditions, as well as those with older injuries, may not be ideal candidates for this approach. To better understand whether minimally invasive kyphoplasty may be right for you, simply schedule a consultation with Dr. Lewis. During this visit, Dr. Lewis will examine your spine, review or perform imaging studies, discuss your symptoms and health history, and recommend a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

What happens during kyphoplasty?

In most cases, kyphoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthesia and only takes about one hour to complete. Patients who have multiple compression fractures should plan for a longer procedure. Once the patient is lying down comfortably on their stomach, the target treatment area is numbed. Dr. Lewis then uses x-ray imaging to guide a small needle beneath the skin and insert a balloon. The balloon is then slowly inflated, which causes the vertebrae to shift into a more natural position and create an opening or cavity. The balloon is then removed, and the cavity is filled with a surgical, medical-grade cement-like material. This hardens quickly, keeping the vertebrae in their new position for a straighter spine, better posture, and improved pain.

How much straighter will my back be after kyphoplasty?

The degree to which your spinal curvature can be corrected with kyphoplasty will depend on a number of factors, including the nature and severity of your injuries. Prior to treatment, Dr. Lewis will explain more about what results may be possible for you.

Consider the benefits of an outpatient kyphoplasty

By choosing minimally invasive kyphoplasty under local anesthesia, patients typically have a more comfortable and convenient experience compared with some other treatment options. Benefits of minimally invasive kyphoplasty in Frisco, TX include:

• No general anesthesia required
• Can be performed in about one hour
• Pain relief is noticeable within 1 – 2 days for most patients
• Can correct or improve a curved spine
• Can improve posture
• No incisions or scarring
• Minimal downtime

Choose fast, long-lasting pain relief and improved posture with a minimally invasive balloon kyphoplasty in Frisco, TX

If you have recently sustained a spinal compression fracture and are frustrated with your spinal curvature and pain, we can help. Interested in learning more about whether kyphoplasty may be right for you? Call today to schedule your private consultation with Frisco, TX pain management provider and anesthesiologist Dr. Jerry Lewis at Lewis Pain & Physical Medicine.