Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat kyphosis, the rounding of the back that develops when vertebrae weaken, fracture and collapse. Advanced Radiology uses kyphoplasty to treat fractures and relieve the pain caused by kyphosis.
What Causes Kyphosis?
The No. 1 contributor to the development of kyphosis is osteoporosis, a disorder that causes the bones to become brittle and susceptible to fractures. Osteoporosis affects 44 million adults in the U.S. and is prevalent among those over the age of 55. Osteoporosis is especially common in women.
Other Causes of Kyphosis Include:
Trauma. Injuries, accidents and repetitive motions like jumping or falling can cause the development of kyphosis.
Medications. Prolonged use of corticosteroids for treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions can affect bone density.
Genetics. Some conditions like Scheuermann’s disease, which causes prepubescent growth spurts, contribute to the development of kyphosis and cause the telltale rounding of the back. Marfan syndrome also causes kyphosis in children.
Cancer. Forms of cancer like multiple myeloma weaken the bones of the back, which leads to fractures and kyphosis. Chemotherapy, radiation and other cancer treatments also weaken the bones over time.
Sedentary Lifestyle. Constant sitting and bad posture can cause the development of kyphosis. Kyphosis develops because sitting puts significant pressure on the vertebrae, wearing them down.
How Does Kyphoplasty Work?
During the kyphoplasty procedure, Dr. Budler makes a small incision at the site of the affected vertebrae and inserts a very thin catheter. Through the catheter, he threads a small balloon. Once the balloon is in place, it is slowly inflated to raise up the area. Dr. Budler then injects a mixture of bone cement to stabilize the fracture and a particular polymer known as Activos 10 that facilitates bone growth.
What Are the Benefits of Kyphoplasty for Treating Kyphosis?
Patients with kyphosis who choose the kyphoplasty procedure can expect decreased pain or an end to their back pain altogether. Another benefit of the kyphoplasty procedure is straightening of the spine, so patients will no longer pitch forward. Kyphoplasty also helps to strengthen the back and prevent future compression fractures and kyphosis.
Do you suffer from kyphosis? Are you wondering if the kyphoplasty procedure is right for you? Call Advanced Radiology at 855-201-1519 to schedule your consultation today.