KYPHOPLASTY RECOVERY

KYPHOPLASTY / CEMENT AUGMENTATION

A spinal procedure used to treat pain from spinal compression fractures. Your neurosurgeon uses a needle to deliver cement into the fractured bone to relieve pain. The procedure is perfomed as an outpatient with no post operative hospitalization required. Recovery from the procedure can be very rapid although the body needs time to heal the spinal fracture.

Recovery Guide

RECOVERY TIMELINE

  • FIRST FEW DAYS

    • DAY 1: After the procedure you will be observed and then discharged to your home with a family member or friend.
    • PAIN: Expect to have some pain at the site of the small incisions. It should not be debilitating. Use ice for 15 minutes every 1 to 2 hours or more as needed for the painful areas.
    • REST: Plan to allow adequate down time for healing from the spinal fracture as well as the procedure. You may be fatigued and need extra rest.
    • ACTIVITY: Avoid bending, twisting, and heavy lifting with the low back. Try to walk at least twice daily. You may need a cane or walker at first. It is very important to take measures to avoid falling after surgery.
    • BRACE: You may be fitted for a rigid low back brace. Wear the brace as directed by your medical team. If no brace is provided consider wearing a low back brace to help with pain and soreness.

  • WEEKS 1 - 2

    • PAIN: The pain from the procedure and your spinal fracture should quickly improve over the first few days. You may have soreness with some movements. Continue to use ice as needed for soreness.
    • ACTIVITY: Try to walk several times per day as tolerated. Slowly increase your activity but avoid strenous activity.
    • B/L/T: Avoid bending, lifting and twisting with the low back as much as possible. Use of a grabber tool is suggested to avoid stressing the low back while healing.
    • WOUND: Keep the incisions clean and dry. If surgical glue was used, do not scratch off the glue.
    • BRACE: A low back brace can be used to help with soreness after surgery. Wear the brace as you increase your activity level.

  • MONTH 1

    • PT: After post operative follow up with your provider, you may be referred for outpatient physical therapy.
    • ACTIVITY: Continue to avoid heavy lifting with the low back. Continue to use a grabber tool to avoid stressing the low back. Listen to your back and avoid activities that cause pain. Use a walker or cane to help avoid falling.
    • BRACE: Consider wearing a low back brace as you increase your activity level.

  • LONG TERM

    You likely suffered the spinal fracture due to a softening of the bones in the spine. There are very strong medications that can help improve the strength of your bones. Discuss getting your bone density checked with your doctor. You may need referral to a bone health specialist.
LUMBAR SURGERY RECOVERY AIDS

ESSENTIAL LUMBAR FUSION RECOVERY AIDS

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IMPORTANT RECOVERY POINTS

Many patients see immediate pain relief after the procedure. Others will see slower improvement each week.

It is very important to avoid falling after your surgery. Use of a walker or cane may be needed temporarily or permanently.

Contact your provider if you develop any of the following concerning symptoms:

  • Uncontrolled pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Drainage from the incision
  • New weakness or numbness

This guide is meant to serve as a reference for patients at Coastal Spine Institute, PC and may not be applicable to your surgery. Consult with your medical provider to determine if this guide is appropriate for you.