Kyphoplasty Information

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spine surgery that is used to treat vertebral compression fractures, a condition in which a spinal bone (vertebra) has fractured and partially collapsed. A fractured or collapsed vertebra is typically the result of osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones that is a natural part of aging. The affected vertebra can cause pain and discomfort that requires kyphoplasty or another spinal surgery to remedy the problem. Tampa General Hospital offers kyphoplasties and many other minimally invasive surgeries that help patients find relief from their spinal conditions.

A kyphoplasty involves a small incision in the back near the location of the affected vertebra. Tampa General Hospital’s state-of-the-art facility includes real-time X-ray imaging that helps our surgeons guide a tube to the area of the fracture. Then, a balloon-type device is inserted into the spine and inflated to restore the collapsed vertebra to its original height. The surgeon injects a medical-grade cement into the space to set the bone in place and restore the bone’s strength, as well as support to the spine. The primary goals of a kyphoplasty include:

• Relieving back pain and restoring any lost mobility
• Preventing further fracturing or collapse of the spinal bone
• Realigning the spine and improving posture

Following a kyphoplasty, patients are closely monitored as they recover. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, many patients at TGH experience fast recovery times and pain relief quickly following surgery. Tampa General Hospital is committed to providing comprehensive spine care to help improve the lives of patients with a wide range of spinal conditions, including kyphoplasty.