What are the Risks of Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty?

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are common, safe, and helpful procedures, but like any other procedure or medication, there are many risks.  Some of the risks are related to fracture, a person’s health, anesthesia, and procedure.  Fortunately, the risk of these procedures are generally low, but risks include death, stroke, heart attack, pneumonia, blood clots in lungs and legs, fat embolus, plastic spreading to the lungs, lung collapse, spinal cord or nerve injury causing pain, numbness, weakness, bowel and bladder incontinence or paralysis, infection, bleeding, but not limited to these complications. People with one fracture are at increased risk of future fractures.

For more information on vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty please click on Kyphoplasty.

What are the Results I should Expect from a Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty?

The results from some clinical studies have been controversial. I have found very good results with vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty if you have a recent fracture, back tenderness, and acute to subacute (recent) swelling of your fracture on MRI and do not have back nerve or spinal cord compression or instability in the spine. Most patients’ pain improves.  Even though uncommon these procedures may have risks.  Please contact Executive Spine Surgery if you have a vertebral body compression fracture.

For more information please click Kyphoplasty.

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