Kyphoplasty Performed in Houston, Cypress & Tomball TX

Kyphoplasty is a vertebral augmentation procedure that may be used to stabilize a spinal compression fracture. It can be an appropriate way to treat small cracks that sometimes form in the spinal vertebrae due to sudden trauma or the effects of wear and tear from constant bending and twisting. This type of spinal degeneration is often hastened by osteoporosis, an age-related condition that causes the spine and other bones throughout the body to become weak and brittle. As the effects of the fracture progress, the bones will gradually flatten and eventually collapse.

In addition to back pain, a spinal compression fracture can lead to a loss of body height and the development of kyphosis, an excessive outward curvature of the spine. Kyphoplasty can help restore the height of a fractured vertebra, reinstate the normal curvature of the spine and relieve the associated pain.

What Does Kyphoplasty Involve?

While the patient lies on his or her stomach, the surgeon will use X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) to precisely guide a hollow needle (trocar) into the fractured vertebra. Once the trocar is in place, the surgeon will insert an inflatable, balloon-like device through the trocar and inflate it to create space within the collapsed vertebra. Next, the surgeon will place a special bone cement in the trocar, using it to fill the newly created space and fortify the vertebra.

Are You a Candidate for a Balloon Kyphoplasty Procedure?

If you have back pain that is limiting your mobility or diminishing your quality of life, your physician will likely order imaging tests to pinpoint the source of your discomfort. You may be a candidate for a kyphoplasty procedure if you are diagnosed with a painful vertebral compression fracture. However, if you are diagnosed with another spine condition, such as spinal osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis or a lumbar disc herniation, your physician may suggest a different treatment approach.

Whether you are experiencing sudden or chronic back pain, R. Alexander Mohr, MD, can identify the cause and suggest an appropriate treatment plan to help you recover. In many cases, back pain can be relieved without surgery. As a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. Mohr will help you explore all of your treatment options.

If you would like to consult with Dr. Mohr, contact Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine today to request an appointment at one of his offices, located in Houston, Cypress or Tomball, TX.