Kyphoplasty is a relatively new procedure that is indicated for the treatment of osteoporotic or pathologic compression fractures of the thoracic and/or lumbar spine. This minimally invasive procedure requires imaging guidance. Kyphoplasty entails the inflation of a balloon tamp, prior to the injection of opacified acrylic bone cement, within the compressed vertebral body in an attempt to restore vertebral body height and reduce the associated kyphotic deformity. Preliminary studies show that kyphoplasty, like vertebroplasty, provides significant pain relief in properly selected patients. Definitive demonstration of height restoration and kyphosis correction are still under investigation.
Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.