Kyphoplasty at NYU Winthrop Hospital

Kyphoplasty is a leading edge, minimally invasive treatment which provides pain relief to patients immobilized by spine compression fractures associated with osteoporosis. This procedure alleviates fracture-related pain, along with stabilizing the fracture, restoring height and reducing deformity.

How Is Kyphoplasty Performed?

Using x-ray guidance, two small incisions are made, and a probe is placed into the vertebral space where a fracture is located. The bone is drilled and a balloon is inserted on each side. These balloons are inflated with dye so they can be seen on the x-ray until they expand to the desired height. They are then removed and the spaces they created are filled with special orthopaedic cement to bind the fracture. The cement hardens quickly – providing strength and stability to the vertebra, restoring height and relieving pain.

Patients usually go home following kyphoplasty within 24 hours, and pain relief typically occurs within the first few days.