Balloon Kyphoplasty & Bone Tumor Ablation
A same-day minimally invasive procedure that stabilizes painful vertebral compression fractures, restores vertebral height, and — for patients with cancer-related bone pain — uses targeted energy to treat bone metastases at their source.
Vertebral Compression Fractures
Balloon kyphoplasty may be an option if you have been diagnosed with a vertebral compression fracture — a small collapse within one of the bones of your spine — causing significant back pain. These fractures most commonly occur in people with osteoporosis, but can also result from trauma or cancer that has spread to the spine.
If rest, bracing, or medications have not provided adequate relief, kyphoplasty stabilizes the fracture and addresses the pain directly. A consultation with our clinical team will determine whether you are a candidate.
How Balloon Kyphoplasty Works
Balloon kyphoplasty first gently restores height to a collapsed vertebra using a small balloon, then fills the space with bone cement to stabilize the fracture from within. Access is gained through a small incision of approximately 1 cm under local anesthesia — no general anesthesia required. Patients go home the same day and most experience significant to complete pain relief within 24 to 48 hours.
When a vertebra collapses, the loss of height causes the spine to bow forward — a condition known as kyphosis. This shifts the body’s center of balance, strains surrounding structures, and can compress chest and abdominal organs. By restoring vertebral height, balloon kyphoplasty addresses both the immediate pain and helps correct this postural change.
Bone Tumor Ablation for Cancer-Related Bone Pain
Bone tumor ablation uses radiofrequency or microwave energy delivered directly to a painful bone metastasis — destroying tumor tissue at the site and providing meaningful relief for patients with cancer-related bone pain. This is a rare regional capability and is often combined with kyphoplasty when cancer has caused both bone destruction and vertebral fracture.
Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and function following the procedure. A consultation will determine whether you are a candidate and whether kyphoplasty, ablation, or a combination of both is most appropriate for your situation.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Both kyphoplasty and bone tumor ablation are same-day outpatient procedures. Most kyphoplasty patients experience substantial fracture pain relief within 24 to 48 hours. Some mild soreness at the procedure site is normal and resolves quickly. Most patients return to light daily activity within one to two days, and walking is encouraged soon after returning home.
The pace of recovery and degree of improvement can vary depending on the number of fractures treated and your overall health. Your clinical team will provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Schedule a Consultation
A consultation is the right starting point. Our clinical team will review your history and determine the most appropriate path forward.