Fractured Spine? New Balloon Treatment Offers Relief. The Ins and Outs of Kyphoplasty

spine

What type of fracture is more common than hip fractures in the United States? Compression fractures of the spine, which according to spineuniverse.com, occur in more than 700,000 patients per year. For many years, treatments were limited to rest, back braces, and invasive surgeries, but today, a promising new treatment called “kyphoplasty” repairs the fracture and gets patients moving again—all on the same day.

What is a Spinal Compression Fracture?

Spinal compression fractures—or vertebral fractures, as they’re also called—refer to fractures, or breaks, in the bones of the spine, called the vertebrae. Most are the result of osteoporosis, a disease that gradually weakens bones, making them brittle and more susceptible to injury, although trauma can also be to blame.

Spinal fractures are most common in the front, bulky part of the bone, and often cause it to collapse forward, resulting in a curvature of the spine. This curve in the back—called “kyphosis”—can create a stooped posture, making it difficult to walk, sleep, reach for things, and perform other daily activities. The fracture itself can also cause pain, though not always. Miniature fractures can occur over time, degrading the bone but resulting in little discomfort.

Though a single spinal fracture can be cause for concern—particularly if it’s especially painful or debilitating—the larger issue is often the risk for additional fractures. One fracture is known to predict a higher risk of future fractures, and should be taken as a serious warning for preventative measures like medications and weight-bearing exercise. Multiple compression fractures, according to webmd.com, can result in height loss, hip pain, breathing problems, digestive difficulties, and a hunched-back posture.

How do you know if you’ve had a spinal fracture? Sudden, severe pain, particularly in older women at risk for osteoporosis, often betrays the condition. Pain is typically localized in the fractured area of the back, and may worsen when standing, walking, or bending. Patients with persistent pain should see a doctor immediately, as treatment outcomes are best within the first 8 weeks after the fracture occurs.

Today’s Treatments

Non-surgical treatments for spinal compression fractures include rest, pain medications, back bracing, and physical therapy. However, if the fracture is causing a lot of pain or disability, patients are advised to seek further treatment. In the past, this usually involved a procedure called “vertebroplasty,” in which an injection of orthopedic cement into the body of the vertebra helped alleviate pain and strengthen the bone. Under general anesthesia, doctors insert a special needle into the back, and inject a small amount of cement into the area of the fracture. The cement hardens quickly and helps stabilize the spine.

Kyphoplasty, however—a newer treatment developed by orthopedist Mark A. Reiley, MD—goes beyond strengthening the bone to actually help restore it to its former position, potentially improving height and posture. Similar to vertebroplasty, it is performed under general anesthesia, but instead of just inserting cement around the area of the break, the doctor actually inserts a special needle into the collapsed area of the vertebra and inflates a special balloon there, creating space and height comparable to that which existed before the fracture. Cement is then injected into the space left by the balloon, securing the bone’s new position. In addition to the restorative benefits, kyphoplasty also carries a lower risk of cement leakage into the surrounding tissues and bones.

Kyphoplasty has the best chance of restoring height in the spine if it is performed within 8 weeks of the fracture, before further damage occurs. Patients usually return to their regular activities within a day—with the exception of heavy lifting—with pain relief occurring within 48 hours. If you feel you may be a candidate for this exciting new treatment, contact the office of Dr. Katz for more information.

Dr. Victor Katz
3632 Nostrand Ave., 3rd Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11229

(718) 336-2258

444 Merrick Rd., Ste. 380
Lynbrook, NY 11563

(516) 775-0272