Fixing a Crushed Vertebra in Under 10 Min

In this video we learn about a patient who had a L2 insufficiency vertebral compression fracture (a fracture caused by osteoporosis—weak bone) and severe unrelenting back pain. I treated her with the kyphoplasty procedure, which involves sticking a small needle into the vertebra, inflating a balloon, and injecting cement. This helps stabilize the fracture and prevent further collapse and deformity that are common in osteoporotic fractures. It is an outpatient surgery, usually taking less than 10 minutes to complete a single level. Kyphoplasty is truly minimally invasive and does not involve a formal incision or even stitches.

The procedure has been established as helping not only acute low back pain, but has also been shown to extend a patient's life. We think people live longer with this procedure because it reduces pain and allows for increased mobility. I explain the kyphoplasty procedure and its history in detail in my book, The Spine Encyclopedia. For many of my patients it has lead to significant improvement in their pain and suffering.

When done by an expert, the kyphoplasty procedure is safe, but as with any surgical procedure there are certain risks. Check out my video on the procedure to learn more.

Dr. Katsuura, a board certified spine surgeon practicing in Marin, Novato, Sonoma, Mendocino and San Francisco treats a wide range of back and neck conditions in his spinal clinic. He is an expert in minimally invasive, reconstructive and motion preserving procedures.