Is Kyphoplasty a Painful Procedure?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures, often caused by osteoporosis, spinal trauma, or certain types of cancer. The procedure involves inserting a small balloon into the fractured vertebra to create space, which is then filled with a special bone cement to stabilize the fracture and restore the height of the vertebra. Kyphoplasty aims to reduce pain associated with compression fractures and improve spinal stability.
While the procedure itself is generally not considered painful, mild discomfort can occur during the initial stages of recovery. Kyphoplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, ensuring the patient feels minimal to no pain during the procedure. Afterward, some patients may experience mild soreness or tenderness at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few days. Pain relief from the treated fracture can often be felt almost immediately or within a few days following the procedure. For most patients, the benefits of kyphoplasty, such as significant pain reduction and improved mobility, outweigh the temporary discomfort experienced during the recovery period.
