Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive medical procedure designed to address vertebral compression fractures, which are common and painful breaks in the bones of the spine. This procedure aims to stabilize the fractured vertebra, reduce pain, and restore lost vertebral height. Kyphoplasty is an effective treatment for these fractures, often performed in an outpatient setting, though not universally.
Understanding Kyphoplasty’s Outpatient Status
Kyphoplasty is commonly performed as an outpatient procedure due to its minimally invasive nature, involving a small skin incision or puncture. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per treated vertebra. Patients typically return home the same day.
After kyphoplasty, patients are monitored for one to two hours in a recovery area to ensure stability. This brief observation period is sufficient for most individuals. The procedure is performed either within a hospital setting or in specialized outpatient surgical centers.
The technique involves the insertion of a narrow tube through a small incision, guided by real-time X-ray imaging, into the fractured vertebra. A balloon is then inserted and gently inflated to create a cavity and help restore the bone’s original height. The balloon is subsequently removed, and bone cement, often polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), is injected into the created space to stabilize the fracture.
Individual Factors Affecting the Procedure Setting
Whether kyphoplasty is performed on an outpatient or inpatient basis depends on several individual patient factors. A patient’s overall health and pre-existing medical conditions play a significant role. For example, older patients or those with comorbidities like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may require inpatient observation for safety.
The complexity and number of vertebral fractures also influence the setting. Multiple or more complex fractures may necessitate a longer procedure time and potentially an overnight hospital stay, unlike single fractures often managed on an outpatient basis. The type of anesthesia chosen by the medical team also bears consideration.
Kyphoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation (patient remains awake but relaxed) or general anesthesia (patient is fully unconscious). General anesthesia may be preferred for complex cases or multiple treated levels, potentially leading to an inpatient admission.
Preparing for and Recovering from Kyphoplasty
Preparation for kyphoplasty involves specific instructions. Patients are typically advised to fast, refraining from food for 6 to 12 hours before the procedure, though clear liquids may be allowed up to two hours prior. Adjustments to medications are often necessary; blood thinners, for example, may need to be discontinued several days to a week in advance as directed by the doctor. Other medications, such as those for heart conditions or blood pressure, are usually continued.
Arranging for transportation home is an important pre-procedure step, as sedation or anesthesia renders driving unsafe immediately afterward. Patients are also instructed to shower with an antiseptic soap before the procedure and to avoid applying lotions, perfumes, or wearing jewelry. These measures help minimize the risk of infection.
Patients may experience immediate pain relief from the fracture, though some mild soreness at the incision site is common for a day or two. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort. Activity restrictions include resting for the first 24 hours and avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting (over 10 pounds), or excessive bending and twisting for four to six weeks.
Wound care instructions include keeping the bandage on for approximately two days and opting for showers over baths for several weeks to protect the incision site. Patients are advised to monitor for signs of complications, such as increased swelling, severe pain, redness, drainage, or fever, and to contact their doctor if these symptoms arise.