Dr. Erik Spayde of St. Charles Spine Institute is a resident expert in treating various back conditions, performing specialty treatments such as kyphoplasty for over 14 years.
Balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment that can repair spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis, falls, cancer or benign lesions. Orthopaedic balloons are used to lift the fractured bone and return it to the correct position. A spinal fracture, also known as a vertebral compression fracture, occurs when one of the bones of the spinal column weakens and collapses. Spinal fractures tend to be painful and, if left untreated, can adversely affect overall health and well-being.
Performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation, the procedure typically takes less than an hour and is performed as an outpatient procedure. The procedure consists of the following: A small instrument is used to create a pathway into the fractured bone and a little orthopaedic balloon is guided through the instrument into the vertebra; the incision site is approximately 1 cm in length. Next, the balloon is carefully inflated in an attempt to raise the collapsed vertebra and return it to its normal position. Once the vertebra is in the correct position, the balloon is deflated and removed. This process creates a cavity within the vertebral body. The cavity is filled with a special cement to support the surrounding bone and prevent further collapse. The cement forms an internal cast that holds the vertebra in place.
Balloon kyphoplasty can make it easier for patients to return to everyday activities, such as walking, bending or lifting with significantly less pain than they had prior to the procedure. If you have back pain, call Dr. Spayde at St Charles Spine Institute to see if you are a candidate for this minimally invasive procedure.
St. Charles Spine Institute is located at 558 St. Charles Drive, Suite 200 in Thousand Oaks. Call 805.379.2322 or visit StCharlesSpine.com.