What is kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a medical procedure designed to treat vertebral compression fractures, commonly associated with osteoporosis. During the procedure, a needle is inserted into the affected vertebral body, and a balloon-like device is then inflated within the vertebra. This inflation helps to restore the height and shape of the vertebra that may have crumpled due to the fracture. Once the desired height is achieved, the space is filled with a special type of cement, which stabilizes the vertebra and alleviates pain.

This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who experience significant pain from these fractures, providing both immediate relief and long-term stabilization of the spine. It stands out as a minimally invasive approach compared to other surgical options, making it a preferred choice in appropriate cases.

Other options reflect different medical treatments or procedures that do not align with the definition and purpose of kyphoplasty. For instance, the choice that describes relieving migraine headaches pertains to headache management rather than spinal issues, while another option mistakenly mentions inserting a stent, which is unrelated to vertebral procedures. The non-surgical treatment option also deviates from kyphoplasty's surgical nature and focus on structural repair of the spine.