Is kyphoplasty done with bone cement?

During kyphoplasty, a clinician guides a narrow instrument into a collapsed or fragile vertebra, often using imaging to check its position. A small balloon may be expanded inside the vertebra first. The balloon creates a cavity and can help restore some vertebral shape; it is then removed before the cement is placed. The cement hardens inside the bone and helps provide internal support. Kyphoplasty is different from treatment that relies only on medication, bracing, or exercise. It is usually considered after an assessment identifies a suitable painful vertebral compression fracture. The cement is not intended to replace the whole vertebra or to treat every cause of back pain.

Ask how imaging confirms the painful vertebra, whether the fracture is recent, and what other treatments are reasonable for your condition. Tell the team about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, infection, pregnancy, and difficulty lying flat. Request clear instructions about fasting, medication changes, movement after the procedure, and follow-up. Recovery plans may include gradual activity and treatment for bone strength when osteoporosis contributed to the fracture. Read more about [Bone Cement](/materials/bone-cement/) and [Kyphoplasty](/treatments/spine-care/kyphoplasty/).

After treatment, seek urgent medical help for new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe or rapidly worsening back pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty, fainting, or a high fever. Contact the treating team promptly for increasing wound redness, drainage, swelling, or pain that is not settling. Sudden neurological symptoms need immediate assessment because they can signal pressure on nerves or another serious problem.

Which vertebra is causing my symptoms? Is balloon inflation appropriate for its shape? What cement-related concerns apply to my anatomy? How will you manage my bone health afterward? When can I walk, drive, work, or restart exercise?