Balloon Device Treats Spinal Fractures

A surgical balloon procedure is providing pain relief for thousands of Americans who have spinal fractures due to osteoporosis.

“Fractures change the alignment of the spine,” said Stephen Esses, M.D., professor of orthopedic surgery at Baylor College of Medicine. “Normally, the bones in the spine look like building blocks, but when the alignment is changed, a deformity results, often forming a humped back.”

The surgical balloon is a minimally invasive device designed to treat fractures caused by osteoporosis. During the procedure, a half-inch incision is made and a narrow pathway is created through the fractured bone. The balloon is then inflated and withdrawn, leaving a cavity that can be filled with cement. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis, and usually takes about 30 minutes. Most patients experience some level of pain relief immediately.

“It is usually very difficult to direct the exact position of the bone cement,” Esses said. However, by using the balloon, we can create a void in which the cement can be guided.”

Osteoporosis is a disease affecting 10 million Americans, and is characterized by low bone mass and structural changes that cause bones to become fragile and easily broken. Osteoporosis is most common in women and causes 1.5 million fractures each year. The best prevention is to build strong bones during childhood and early adulthood through adequate calcium and vitamin D intake. Exercising, limiting alcohol consumption and refraining from smoking also help to lower the chances of getting osteoporosis later in life.

“Osteoporosis and resultant fractures from osteoporosis affect a large portion of the population, particularly the elderly,” Esses said. “This procedure is a significant step forward in treating this condition.”

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