Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat a spinal compression fracture.

Spinal compression fractures occur primarily in spinal vertebrae that have been weakened by osteoporosis. Kyphoplasty is used to reduce pain from the fracture, stabilize the vertebra, and restore the vertebra back to its normal height.

In the procedure, the surgeon makes a small, half-inch incision over the affected area. Using X-ray guidance, a narrow tube is inserted into one side of the fractured vertebra. A type of bone cement is then injected into the cavity until it is full. The cement hardens quickly, creating an internal cast inside of the fractured vertebra.

Most patients can go home the same day as the procedure.