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Discharge Instructions for Kyphoplasty

Fractures in the bones of the spine (vertebrae) can cause severe back pain and loss of movement. You had a procedure, called kyphoplasty, to cement the fractures in your spine, restore the height of the vertebrae, and help relieve pain. Using image-guided X-rays, your doctor made two small incisions in your back for each vertebra treated. The doctor inserted a balloon on each side of the broken vertebra and inflated them until they expanded to the desired height. Then the balloons were removed. The spaces created by the balloons were filled with orthopedic cement, giving strength and stability to your vertebra. The following are instructions to help you care for your back when you are at home.

Home Care

  • Take your medication exactly as directed.

  • Remove the small bandages on your incision 24-48 hours after the surgery.

  • Don’t shower or soak in a bathtub for 1-2 days after the surgery.

  • Use an ice pack or bag of frozen peas—or something similar—wrapped in a thin towel to reduce the swelling and pain around incision sites. Apply the ice pack for 20 minutes; then remove it for 20 minutes. Repeat as needed.

  • Wear your brace, if you were told to do so by your doctor. And to help stay flexible, bend as much as the brace allows you to.

  • For the first 1-2 days after the surgery, keep your head elevated when lying down.

  • Take short walks. Start by walking for 5 minutes at a time. Then gradually build up your time and distance.

  • Don’t drive for 2 days after surgery. And never drive while taking narcotic pain medication.

  • Don’t lift anything heavier than 10 pounds (about the weight of a gallon of milk) for 3 months. After 3 months, you may be ready to increase lifting and return to normal. But speak with your doctor before doing this.

Follow-Up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.

 

When to Seek Medical Attention

Call 911 right away if you have any of the following:

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

Otherwise, call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:

  • Increased redness, swelling, drainage, or warmth around the incision sites

  • Severe pain at the incision site

  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs

  • Fever above 100.4°F  (38.0°C) or shaking chills
Online Medical Reviewer: Berry, Judith, PhD, APRN
Online Medical Reviewer: newMentor board-certified, academically affiliated clinician
Last Review Date: 3/7/2013
© 2000-2013 Krames StayWell, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.