Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that uses high-pressure injections of cement to treat a compression fracture in the spine from osteoporosis or cancer. This procedure relieves pressure on the spinal cord and interferes with nerve functions.
The risks involved in dallas kyphoplasty are rare but a few complications may occur during or after the surgery. These risks include bleeding, infection, injury of blood vessels, and neurological inhibition of body functions, such as breathing or paralysis.
Let us now see more into the risks involved in kyphoplasty you should know about:
- Infection
A spinal injection of cement can lead to the formation of a short-term infection in less than 1 percent of all patients. If needed, antibiotics can be used to deal with the infection and prevent it from spreading. You should tell your doctor if you have identified any symptoms of infection at the site of injection within two weeks.
- Bleeding
Rarely, patients may have a complication called post-drainage bleeding that occurs after the spine has been drained of blood. This happens when a blood vessel is accidentally punctured at the site of surgery. Although rare, it is quite dangerous because it can lead to loss of blood from affected parts of your abdomen and chest and a heart attack.
- Increased back pain
After spine surgery, most patients have a very high level of pain. This pain may be caused by infection, bleeding, or other medical conditions that need to be addressed right away. You should get medical attention immediately if you have persistent pain that is not alleviated by medications.
- Nerve damage
Even in the rare chance that an infection does occur, most people experience little to no pain. A few patients might have nerve injuries caused by an infection or temporary nerve damage. Some people also might have permanent damage, which is known as cauda equina syndrome. It is a condition that causes constant pain and severe muscle spasms in the lower back and legs.
- Allergic reaction to the cement
The cement used in kyphoplasty may contain metal and plastic that can cause an allergic reaction in some patients. You should tell your doctor if you have a history of allergies to any materials used in the surgery.
- Cement leaking
Cement leakage is a complication that causes small amounts of cement to leak into the joints around the spinal area. This condition affects about 1% of patients and may cause sore joints and slightly reduced movements in the spine.
