Balloon kyphoplasty: a minimally invasive option for compression fractures
A short overview of balloon kyphoplasty and how it differs from vertebroplasty.
Vertebral compression fractures, particularly in osteoporotic patients, can cause pain and reduce quality of life. Balloon kyphoplasty is one minimally invasive approach to managing them.
How it works
Through a small incision, access instruments are introduced into the vertebral body; a balloon is inflated to create a cavity, and bone cement is then injected in a controlled way.
Versus vertebroplasty
In vertebroplasty cement is injected directly into the vertebra, whereas kyphoplasty first creates a cavity with a balloon. The choice of technique rests with the treating physician.
This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice.
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