Indiana Spine Group

At the annual American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons continuing education meeting this past spring, one research study presented evaluated the effectiveness of kyphoplasty.

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spine treatment used to treat vertebral compression fractures as a result of osteoporosis. In this procedure, a balloon tamp is inserted in the affected spinal area. Once inserted, it is inflated to return the spine to the normal height and shape. The balloon is then removed, and bone cement is placed in the cavity/space created by the balloon.

This study included patients who had no more than three non-traumatic vertebral compression fractures. There were 149 patients in the kyphoplasty group, and 151 patients who received non-surgical treatment. Patients were evaluated over a two-year period.

This study concluded that those patients who underwent kyphoplasty faired better than those who had nonsurgical treatments. The kyphoplasty group had improved quality of life, reduced back pain and disability. The study also concluded that both groups had similar adverse affects. To ready a summary of this study, visit this link.