Spine Fracture Treatment
Pain Relief & Restoration for Collapsed Vertebrae
A sudden, sharp pain in your back after something as simple as a cough, a misstep off a curb, or lifting a grocery bag can be more than a passing strain—it may signal a vertebral compression fracture. These injuries are especially common in patients with osteoporosis and, left untreated, can lead to chronic pain, loss of height, and progressive spinal deformity. The good news: today’s minimally invasive treatments can relieve pain quickly and restore your quality of life, often without the long bracing and bed rest of years past.
At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, spinal compression fractures are treated by a team of fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeons with nearly two decades of experience caring for patients across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. Our physicians are leaders in advanced spine care, performing kyphoplasty and other minimally invasive procedures at top-rated regional hospitals using the latest imaging and surgical technology. Patients trust PBSO because our specialists combine deep clinical expertise with a personalized, relationship-driven approach—taking the time to explain every option, answer every question, and tailor each treatment plan to your individual diagnosis, health history, and goals.
Now, advances in medical technology have resulted in a highly successful, minimally invasive procedure called kyphoplasty. This proven treatment option is ideal for spinal compression fractures because it repairs the injury, restores alignment, and reduces the chance of future spine issues. Unlike the long recovery associated with bed rest, pain medication, and spinal bracing, kyphoplasty has a short recuperation time. Some patients can return to normal activity as soon as one to two days post-procedure.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgery performed under local or general anesthesia. The procedure rebuilds the vertebral space lost as a result of spinal compression fractures. First, a small incision is made in the skin of the back. Then, using advanced x-ray imaging technology, a narrow tube is guided through the skin to the fractured vertebra. A special balloon called a bone tamp is inserted through this tube and gently inflated, restoring the vertebral space to the desired height. The balloon is removed, and the restored space is filled with orthopedic cement called PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate). As the cement hardens and repairs the fracture, it restores strength, stability, and height to compressed vertebrae and relieves pain for the patient.
Who Is a Candidate for the Procedure?
Treatment with kyphoplasty is indicated for patients with a recent fracture caused by:
- Osteoporosis
- Myeloma
- Metastasis
- Vertebral angioma
While kyphoplasty works best for recent fractures, some patients with older injuries may also benefit. It is not appropriate for treating severe spinal deformities caused by repeated compression fractures, fractures that are the result of cancer, or injuries from auto accidents and falls.
Benefits of Kyphoplasty
For patients suffering from a compression fracture, kyphoplasty offers significant benefits:
- Pain relief usually within 48 hours of surgery
- Restoration of vertebral height & repair of the compression fracture
- Small incisions & short recovery time
- Hospital stay of one day or less
- Healing without bracing
- Stabilization of vertebrae, helping prevent future fractures
- Prevention of onset or worsening of spinal deformity
Risks of Kyphoplasty
As with any surgery, kyphoplasty has potential risks.
Patients should discuss the following possible complications with their PBSO neurosurgeon:
- Leakage of unhardened cement
- Surgical complications like infection & bleeding
- Pulmonary embolism
- Allergic reactions to chemicals used
- Residual neurological problems & pain
Kyphoplasty at Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics
Most patients who undergo kyphoplasty at PBSO report a significant reduction in pain within 48 hours of the procedure, but kyphoplasty is not appropriate for everyone. When you consult Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics about a compression fracture, you will meet with a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon to determine the best treatment option for your particular health history and diagnosis.
Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics
For nearly 20 years, Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics has been a trusted leader in neurosurgical and orthopedic spine care across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. Our fellowship-trained, board-certified neurosurgeons have performed thousands of advanced spine procedures—including kyphoplasty—at the region’s top hospitals, drawing on extensive subspecialty training, the latest minimally invasive techniques, and a steadfast commitment to evidence-based medicine. Patients and referring physicians choose PBSO for our clinical excellence, compassionate communication, and patient-first philosophy: precise diagnoses, thorough education at every step, and personalized treatment plans built around your goals, mobility, and long-term quality of life.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you or a loved one is living with back pain from a suspected compression fracture, don’t wait—early evaluation leads to better outcomes. Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics has offices conveniently located throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at (888) 741-7272 to speak with a patient advocate, or contact PBSO online to request an appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.
