Kyphoplasty

• Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, through a small incision in the back.
• The procedure typically takes under an hour per treated level and is usually outpatient.
• Many patients notice pain improvement within days, sometimes sooner.
• Light activity typically resumes quickly, with strenuous activity restricted for a few weeks.
• Ongoing treatment of the underlying bone condition, such as osteoporosis, is an important part of care.

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure to stabilize a spinal compression fracture, and recovery is usually quick. Many people feel meaningful pain relief within a day or two and go home the same day or after one night. Light walking resumes almost immediately, though your surgeon may limit strenuous activity and heavy lifting for a short period. Because compression fractures often stem from weak bone, follow-up care usually includes evaluating and treating osteoporosis to lower the chance of another fracture. Contact your surgeon about fever, increasing back pain, or new leg weakness, numbness, or difficulty with bladder or bowel control.