Osteoporosis causes more than 700,000 spinal fractures each year in the United States, more than twice the number of hip fractures, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. In our community we routinely encounter the devastating effects of this disease. During a vertebral compression fracture (VCF), the cortical bone buckles and cracks while the cancellous bone collapses, thereby reducing the overall height and volume of the vertebra. Some fractures may collapse acutely, while others may collapse progressively over time. Detection of a VCF Because of the complex etiology of back pain, approximately two thirds are undiagnosed or untreated, in part due to difficulty determining the cause of the symptoms. However, in light of the growing evidence that vertebral fractures can significantly increase morbidity and mortality over time, it is important to diagnose vertebral fractures. It is important to understand the value of the lateral spine radiographs, and to consider ordering additional imaging studies if the initial films do not show a fracture. Balloon Kyphoplasty – Treatment of VCFs For years, standard treatment for VCFs has been limited to pain medication, bed rest, and bracing. Balloon Kyphoplasty offers a new treatment option for these patients with excellent outcomes. The patient we have treat have experienced significant improvements, including:

• Significant reduction in back pain, sometimes within hours
• Improved quality of life and ability to perform activities of daily living
• Restoration of vertebral body height

It is important to treat these patients early to prevent further vertebral body compression, which may decrease the possible therapeutic benefit. About the Procedure Through a 1 cm incision, a working cannula is placed through the pedicle, after which an orthopedic balloon is guided into the fractured vertebral body. The balloon is inflated, reducing the fracture and elevating the collapsed endplate. Once the fracture has been reduced the balloons are deflated and removed, leaving behind a cavity which is then filled with bone cement under a low manual pressure. The procedure typically takes less than one hour per fracture treated and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.ConclusionBalloon kyphoplasty is an excellent option associated with a low complication rate for patients suffering from painful vertebral compression fractures due to primary and secondary osteoporosis, as well as those caused by multiple myeloma or metastatic disease. By achieving fracture stabilization and correction of the spinal deformity, patients experience significant reduction in pain and improvement in mobility, thus reducing the number of days in bed and increasing the overall quality of life.

Please call, 508-383-1300 or 508-650-7333 with any questions regarding Kyphoplasty and how it may benefit your patients. Neil Grossman, M.D.