Kyphoplasty--minimally invasive vertebral compression fracture repair

OSTEOPOROSIS is a skeletal disorder that compromises bone strength, predisposing a person to an increased risk of fracture. An estimated 700,000 spinal fragility fractures, such as vertebral compression fractures, directly related to osteoporosis occur annually. KYPHOPLASTY, a minimally invasive fracture reduction procedure, has become a treatment option for osteoporotic fractures. A balloon is used in place of the conventional bone tamp to reduce the fracture and create a void in cancellous spinal bone. Polymethylmethacrylate, a cement-like material, is injected into the void to stabilize the fracture. EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT of vertebral compression fractures with kyphoplasty allows normal anatomy to be restored, ultimately decreasing the risk of patient morbidity.