What is kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty?
Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures that stabilize a vertebra that has fractured and partly collapsed - most often a compression fracture caused by osteoporosis, and sometimes by trauma or a tumor. Both use a special bone cement, injected through a needle, to strengthen the broken bone and ease fracture pain.
The two are closely related. Vertebroplasty injects the cement directly into the fractured vertebra. Kyphoplasty adds a step: a small balloon is first inflated inside the bone to create a cavity and partly restore lost height, and the cement then fills that space. Which one suits you depends on the fracture.
They are not the first response to every fracture. Many compression fractures settle with time and non-surgical care, and these procedures are considered mainly when pain is severe or persistent.
What happens during the procedure
The procedure is usually carried out through two small skin punctures rather than an incision, under local or general anesthetic depending on your case. Guided by live X-ray, the surgeon passes a narrow needle into the fractured vertebra.
In kyphoplasty, a balloon is inflated to open a cavity and gently lift the collapsed bone, then removed. Cement is injected into the space and sets firm within minutes, stabilizing the fracture from the inside. The needles are withdrawn and the small punctures are covered with a simple dressing.
Benefits and considerations
The procedure stabilizes the fractured vertebra and may reduce pain caused by movement at the fracture. Kyphoplasty may also restore part of the vertebra’s lost height in selected cases. The degree and timing of symptom improvement vary.
It treats the fracture, not the weak bone underneath, so osteoporosis care must continue. Risks include cement leakage, infection, bleeding, nerve irritation and a new fracture at another level. Your surgeon will discuss these risks in relation to your imaging and health.
Recovery and what to expect
Mobility, pain control and neurological function are checked after the procedure. Discharge may be the same day or after observation, depending on your health and response. Your team will explain wound care, medication, activity and symptoms that require urgent review.
Because a compression fracture is often a sign of fragile bone, the most important next step is protecting the rest of your spine. We will help arrange assessment and treatment for osteoporosis so you are less likely to face another fracture, and explain what to expect at every stage.
How we approach your care
- 01
Find the true source
We begin with a thorough history and examination, supported by imaging where appropriate, to pinpoint the precise source of the problem.
- 02
Consider appropriate options
Where clinically appropriate, we consider established non-surgical options before surgery. The plan depends on the diagnosis, symptoms, health and priorities of the individual patient.
- 03
A plan built around you
Every step is explained clearly, so you always understand your options and what comes next.
This may help if
- A recent vertebral compression fracture confirmed on imaging
- Fracture pain limits standing or walking despite bracing and medication
- Osteoporosis-related collapse that has not settled with time
- The fracture is the clear source of your pain on examination and scan
Suitability can only be assessed after reviewing your symptoms, examination, relevant imaging and previous treatment.
Common questions
What is the difference between kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty?
Both stabilize a fractured vertebra by injecting bone cement through a needle. In vertebroplasty the cement is injected directly into the bone. In kyphoplasty a small balloon is first inflated to create a cavity and partly restore the vertebra's height, then cement fills the space. Your surgeon recommends whichever suits your fracture.
How quickly will my pain improve?
Pain response varies. Stabilizing the fracture may reduce movement-related pain, while pain from muscles or another source may persist. Your team will explain what the examination and imaging suggest in your case.
Is it done as a day case?
It may be performed as a day case, but observation or an overnight stay may be advised depending on your health, mobility, pain control and the fracture being treated.
What are the risks?
Possible risks include cement leaking outside the vertebra, cement entering a blood vessel, infection, bleeding, nerve irritation and a new fracture at another level. Your surgeon will explain the likelihood and relevance of each risk for your case.
Will I still need treatment for osteoporosis?
Almost always, yes. These procedures fix the immediate fracture but do not treat the underlying weak bone that allowed it. Managing osteoporosis - with medication, vitamin D, nutrition and safe exercise - is essential to lower the risk of further fractures, and we will help coordinate that care.
Do all compression fractures need this procedure?
No. Many vertebral compression fractures settle with time, pain relief, bracing and activity changes, and surgery is not the first step. Cement stabilization is considered mainly when severe pain persists or limits standing and walking despite that care. It is one option, not an automatic one.