New technique for fractures of the spinal column
During this past month, two patients suffering from fractures of the spinal column were treated with the use of an innovative technique, the Kyphoplasty System, at the Hospital Particular do Algarve in Faro.
The new technique provides an effective means of treating vertebral fractures in patients with associated pathology (osteoporosis, cancer metastases, spinal tumors), which result in the weakening of the spinal column and extremely painful fractures, thus diminishing the patient’s quality of life.
This procedure is performed in the operating theatre through two small incisions in the skin. A balloon catheter, precisely positioned with the use of an X-ray, is introduced in the fractured body of the vertebra, expanding it, thereby creating the best possible condition for stabilising the spine.
The space which is created in the interior of the vertebra is then filled with a special cement restoring the necessary solidity to the fractured vertebra.
The patient is usually discharged after 24 to 48 hours and a control X-ray performed in order to confirm the effectiveness of the procedure.
This minimally invasive technique, which combines experience with precision engineering, guarantees the highest level of safety and reliability.
Overview
This minimally-invasive procedure treats spine fractures cause by osteoporosis. It is designed to provide rapid back pain relief and help straighten the spine.
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1.Instruments inserted
through a half-inch incision, small instruments are placed into the fractured vertebral body to create a working channel. IBT Inserted: The KyphX Inflatable Bone Tamp (IBT) is then placed into the fracture.
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2.Cavity created
The device is carefully inflated, creating a cavity inside the vertebral body.
Balloon deflated: The balloon is deflated, leaving a cavity in the vertebral body.
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3.Fracture stabilised
The cavity is filled with bone cement to stabilise the fracture. Once filled, the incision is closed.
End of procedure
With the process completed, an ‘internal cast’ is now in place. This stabilises the vertebral body and provides rapid mobility and pain relief. It also restores vertebral body height, reducing spinal deformity.
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