Overview
When the bones in the spine fracture, the resulting pain can be incapacitating. Minimally invasive kyphoplasty resolves these painful breaks. Under general anaesthesia and continuous X-ray guidance, a needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra. A balloon is inflated to restore vertebral height, and a cement-like substance is injected into the space. Once the cement hardens, the needles are removed and only a bandage is applied over the puncture marks.
Benefits
- No incisions required — needles puncture the skin only
- No damage to surrounding muscles and nerves
- Minimal to no scarring
- Outpatient procedure with same-day discharge for most patients
- Durable cement prevents post-surgical complications
When it May Not Be Suitable
- Infection in or near the fracture site
- Allergies to surgical materials
- Stable, symptom-free fracture
- Severe spinal instability from osteoporosis
Minimally Invasive vs Open Surgery
| Factor | Minimally Invasive | Open Surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Incision size | Small (often 8mm–2cm) | Large |
| Muscle damage | Minimal — muscles separated | More — muscles cut |
| Blood loss | Low | Higher |
| Post-op pain | Less | More |
| Hospital stay | Short (day-care to 1–2 days) | Longer |
| Scarring | Minimal | More visible |
| Return to activity | Faster | Slower |
| Infection risk | Lower | Higher |
Why choose Dr. M.D.S. Sasidharan?
Fellowship-trained spine surgeon (MS Ortho, FASSI) with 5,000+ spinal surgeries
International training: endoscopic spine surgery (Germany) & deformity (Seoul); AO Spine Asia Pacific fellowship
Specialist in endoscopic (keyhole), robotic & non-fusion (VBT) scoliosis surgery
Patient-first: the least invasive option that resolves your problem
Frequently Asked Questions
- Kyphoplasty is minimally invasive and performed through a needle, not an incision. Most patients experience significant pain relief and go home the same day.
Medically reviewed by Dr. M.D.S. Sasidharan, Consultant Spine Surgeon, Iswarya Hospital OMR, Chennai. Outcomes vary by patient — consult for personalised advice.