Kyphoplasty is a medical procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures. When a vertebra breaks, the bone collapses, causing pain, instability of the spine, and height loss. Vertebral compression fractures are most commonly caused by bone loss due to osteoporosis, which is significantly more common in elderly patients.
Vertebral fractures are relatively common, with about 1.5 million 2 adults in the United States experiencing a compression fracture each year. Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment option for fractures that can reduce pain and restore mobility. Considering that the risk of these fractures increases with age, is kyphoplasty a safe option for elderly patients?
The guide below covers kyphoplasty in older patients, complications, and how to prepare.
What is a Kyphoplasty Procedure?
A balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a compression fracture of the vertebra. During the procedure, the surgeon inserts and inflates a balloon-like device into the fractured vertebra. When the balloon inflates, it helps restore some of the height loss and creates a space for the doctor to inject bone cement. The cement will then harden and form an internal cast to provide spinal stability.
Is Kyphoplasty Safe for Elderly Patients?
Kyphoplasty is considered a safe procedure for elderly patients. As with any surgery, there are potential risks. However, having the procedure performed by an experienced surgeon and following preoperative and postoperative instructions decreases the risk of adverse side effects.
Kyphoplasty is generally considered a safe option for pain relief in elderly patients with spinal fractures. It often leads to better pain management, improved mobility, and an enhanced quality of life.
Of course, it is wise to discuss the benefits and potential risks with your healthcare provider before making any commitments to any surgical procedures.
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How Does an Elderly Patient Prepare for Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is an outpatient procedure that is relatively simple to prepare for. Some of the ways to prepare include:
Consultation
During your consultation, the doctor will explain how kyphoplasty is performed, the risks and benefits, what to expect, and answer any additional questions.
For example, you and your doctor will discuss the type of sedation used.
Kyphoplasty may be performed using moderate sedation or general anesthesia. The pros and cons of each are discussed.
Review of Medical History
Reviewing your medical history is an essential part of preparing for the procedure. This review will help your surgeon determine if you are a good candidate and if you have any medical conditions that may increase your risk of complication or affect your recovery.
Medication Considerations
Your doctor will review your regular medications before the procedure. For elderly patients, this can be a critical step. Certain medications may increase the risk of excess blood loss, and your doctor may instruct you to hold medications for a specific period before having kyphoplasty.
Follow Preoperative Instructions
As with any medical procedure, you are given instructions before the surgery. This may include:
- Fasting before the surgery
- Withholding certain supplements or medications
- Quitting smoking
Home and Support Considerations
Before undergoing kyphoplasty, it is helpful to consider the support and help you may need during your recovery. For example, your physical activity may be limited immediately after, and you may need help with household tasks. A support system should be in place before the procedure to help your recovery go more smoothly.
Are Complications Possible with Kyphoplasty in Elderly Patients?
Although kyphoplasty is a good treatment option for spinal compression, it is essential to understand potential risks, which include:
- Infection: The risk of infection is minimized by following proper infection control techniques.
- Bleeding: Any type of surgery can result in excess bleeding. Because kyphoplasty does not involve incisions, excess blood loss is uncommon.
- Blood clots: Blood clots can also occur with any type of surgery. However, compression stockings and moving around may decrease the chances of a clot developing.
- Nerve damage: Although rare, nerve damage, which can lead to pain or numbness, can develop.
- Reaction to general anesthesia: An allergic reaction to anesthesia can occur. However, this is usually quickly treatable.
Kyphoplasty Recovery in Elderly Patients
After kyphoplasty, patients can expect a period of rehabilitation and recovery. Recovery may include the following:
Following Postoperative Instructions
Following postoperative instructions promotes quicker recovery periods. These instructions may include limitations on driving, restrictions on activities, and treatment of pain at the surgical site.
Return to Physical Activity
Your surgeon will instruct you on a gradual return to activity. This may include restrictions on strenuous activities for several weeks. For instance, you may have to avoid heavy lifting as you recover, or physical therapy may be recommended.
As the bone cement hardens, your spine should become more stable, gradually allowing you to return to daily activities without restrictions.
Pain Management
Some patients experience mild discomfort at the injection site, which can usually be managed with pain medications. You may also feel immediate relief from the fracture pain.
Attend Follow-up Appointments
It is important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider as scheduled. This is an opportunity for your provider to assess your progress in ensuring proper healing.
Report Unusual Symptoms Immediately
If you experience unusual symptoms, you must report them to your doctor immediately. Certain symptoms could indicate an infection. Signs to watch for include a fever, severe pain, and pus draining from the injection site.
Summary
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures. It can relieve pain, restore vertebral height, and improve quality of life. Some people see immediate improvement after the procedure.
If you have any questions about kyphoplasty or how to treat compression fractures, we are happy to help. To schedule a consultation, please contact us today!
Sources
- Patel A, Petrone B, Carter KR. Percutaneous Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty. [Updated 2023 May 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525963/
- Osteoporosis and Spinal Fractures. (2021). American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/osteoporosis-and-spinal-fractures/
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