What should you know about kyphoplasty for compression fracture?

A compression fracture may follow a fall, minor strain, or weakened bone. Imaging helps show its age, position, and whether the back of the vertebra or nearby nerves is involved. Kyphoplasty is generally considered when pain remains limiting despite an appropriate trial of non-surgical care, or when the fracture is judged suitable for cement support.

Before the procedure, share your medicines, allergies, bleeding history, and any heart or lung conditions. Your team may advise fasting and changing medicines that affect clotting. Afterward, follow the discharge instructions, keep the puncture sites clean, and increase activity gradually. A plan for bone health matters because treating one fracture does not remove the risk of another.

Seek urgent medical help for new leg weakness, numbness around the groin, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe pain after a fall. Contact the treating team promptly for fever, spreading redness, drainage, worsening wound pain, chest symptoms, or pain that suddenly becomes much stronger.

How does imaging show that my fracture is suitable for kyphoplasty? What non-surgical options should I try, and how will we judge whether they helped? What is my plan for osteoporosis or other causes of weakened bone?