Prices in Germany are normally 75% below the cost for a kyphoplasty in the US and are individually quoted. They include all medical expenses, the hospital stay, surgeon's fees, operation room fees, anesthesia, anesthesiologist's fees, medicine, nursing, semi-private room, meals, pre-op diagnosis, local phone and English TV.
Kyphoplasty: When Used
Like vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty is used to treat patients with compression fractures of the vertebrae of the spine. Unlike vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty, can restore bone height in the vertebrae and unwanted curvature of the spine.
Kyphoplasty: Procedure
The kyphoplasty patient lies face down during the procedure. A thin tube is place by the physician into the fractured vertebra through an incision in the back. Through the tube, the physician drills a small hole through the hard, outer part of the bone and into its softer center. Through this pathway the physician inserts a special balloon into the interior of the vertebra. The balloon is then inflated. This inflation can restore the vertebra to its original height. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving a cavity, which the physician fills with bone cement.
Kyphoplasty: Anesthesia
Either local anesthesia or general anesthesia is used.
Kyphoplasty is most successful in restoring bone height if done within two to three months of the fracture.
Kyphoplasty: Postop
For two or three days afterward, you may feel a bit sore at the point of the needle insertion. You can use an icepack to relieve any discomfort but be sure to protect your skin from the ice with a cloth. The incision is closed with a strip of tape and covered with a bandage. It's important that the injection site remain clean. You can shower while the bandage is still on.
Bedrest is recommended for the first 24 hours following kyphoplasty, though you can get up to use the bathroom.
Continued microfractures of the spine can lead to kyphosis, which is a severe curvature of the upper spine forward.