6 Preparation Tips For Kyphoplasty

Balloon Kyphoplasty Procedure | London Spine Unit | UK's Best Spinal Clinic  | Harley StreetKyphoplasty is a slightly invasive surgical procedure that has revolutionized the treatment of spinal fractures. It is a highly effective and safe procedure that can help alleviate pain, restore vertebral body height, and improve quality of life. Unlike traditional spinal fracture treatments, kyphoplasty Marietta involves using a small balloon that your doctor inserts into the affected area of your spine and injects bone cement to stabilize the fractured bone. This procedure provides immediate pain relief and restores mobility, making it a popular choice for those suffering from spinal fractures due to osteoporosis or trauma. The following tips can help you prepare for the procedure.

  1.     Consult your doctor

During your consultation, your doctor will review your medical history, discuss the benefits and risks of the procedure, and provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Your provider may also perform a physical examination and order X-rays or MRI scans to assess the extent of your spinal fracture and determine if kyphoplasty is the appropriate treatment for you. Additionally, you can ask your provider any questions regarding the procedure or recovery process.

  1. Stop taking blood-thinning medications

Blood-thinning medications can interfere with blood clotting and increase your risk of bleeding during and after the procedure. Therefore, you may need to stop taking these medications a few days before the procedure.

  1. Arrange for someone to drive you

After the procedure, you will not be able to drive yourself home, so you need to arrange for a loved one to pick you up from the hospital. It would be best to have someone to stay with you for 24-48 hours after the procedure to help with daily activities. This is because you may experience some pain, dizziness, or grogginess from the anesthesia or pain medications, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

  1. Avoid eating or drinking anything

Your provider may also give you fasting instructions which involve refraining from eating or drinking anything for a certain amount of time before the procedure. The reason for fasting is to reduce your risk of complications during the treatment, such as nausea or vomiting, and to minimize your risk of aspiration during anesthesia. Your doctor will guide you on when to stop eating and drinking to ensure the treatment succeeds.

  1. Wear loose, comfortable clothing

On the day of the procedure, you should avoid tight clothing that may cause discomfort or irritation and is difficult to remove. Loose clothing can make it easier for the medical team to access the area of the spine that needs treatment and ensure you are as comfortable as possible during the procedure. Your provider may also advise against wearing jewelry or other accessories that may interfere with the procedure.

  1. Discuss anesthesia options

The two primary anesthesia options are local anesthesia and general anesthesia. Local anesthesia involves injecting medication to numb your spine, while general anesthesia induces a temporary state of unconsciousness. The choice of anesthesia will depend on your medical history, the complexity of the procedure, and your preference. You should discuss these options with your doctor and weigh the benefits and risks of each option to make an informed decision.

For more information about kyphoplasty, call the Alliance Spine & Pain office or book an appointment online.