Kyphoplasty
Restore spinal stability and relieve pain from osteoporotic fractures.
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Surgery Type
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Implant Type
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What happens in this surgery?
- Performed under local or general anesthesia, often as an outpatient procedure.
- A small incision is made, and a narrow tube is guided into the fractured vertebra under continuous X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance.
- A balloon is inflated within the vertebra to create a cavity and help restore vertebral height, then deflated and removed.
- Bone cement (PMMA) is injected into the created cavity, hardening rapidly to stabilize the bone.
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Connect with a specialist to see if Kyphoplasty is right for you.
Post Surgery Recovery
What to expect after your procedure
Patients typically experience significant pain relief almost immediately after kyphoplasty. They are monitored for a few hours in a recovery area and are usually discharged the same day. Mild pain or soreness at the incision site is common and can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Most individuals can resume light activities within a few days, but strenuous lifting or twisting should be avoided for several weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and assess overall recovery. Physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen back muscles, improve posture, and help patients safely return to their normal activities. While kyphoplasty effectively treats the existing fracture, it does not cure the underlying osteoporosis. Long-term management of osteoporosis is essential to prevent future fractures. This typically includes medication, dietary adjustments (rich in calcium and vitamin D), and regular exercise. Your doctor will advise on the best course of action to maintain bone health and reduce the risk of further spinal compression fractures.
Hospital Stay
1–7 days
Varies by procedure
Initial Rest
1–2 weeks
Light activity only
Follow-up Visit
2–4 weeks
Wound check & review
Full Recovery
6–12 weeks
Back to normal activity
Recovery & Wellness Tips
- Discuss all current medications, including blood thinners, with your doctor, as some may need to be stopped temporarily.
- Undergo pre-operative imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scan) to precisely locate the fracture and assess its characteristics.
- Follow fasting instructions (typically no food or drink for 6-8 hours) before the procedure.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you may be sedated.