Kyphoplasty is a minimally-invasive procedure most often used to repair a vertebrae that has been damaged by a compression fracture due to trauma or osteoporosis.

During kyphoplasty, a small incision is made in the patient’s back and a narrow tube is guided to the damaged vertebrae using fluoroscopy (like a video x-ray machine). A small cavity is then created inside the vertebra using instruments such as a balloon or a curette type of device. The doctor then uses another instrument to inject bone cement into the cavity. The bone cement hardens quickly and stabilizes the vertebrae.

Kyphoplasty is usually done on an out-patient basis under local anesthetic, though it can be done in a hospital setting under general anesthesia if required.

While patient activity levels may be limited during the weeks following the procedure, recovery from the procedure usually takes just several hours to two or three days.