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Orthopedics addresses conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Innovations in surgical techniques and technology have led to procedures that are less invasive, offer faster recovery periods, and improve patient outcomes. For individuals experiencing pain and mobility issues, understanding these modern treatment options is a key step in their healthcare journey.
Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is a procedure in orthopedics that is used to treat specific types of spinal fractures, known as vertebral compression fractures. These fractures can occur due to osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, making them more susceptible to breaking. When a vertebra collapses, it can cause severe back pain, a stooped posture, and a loss of height.
During a kyphoplasty procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision in the back to access the fractured vertebra. Using imaging guidance, the surgeon inserts a narrow tube or needle into the bone. A special balloon is then passed through the tube and into the vertebra. The balloon is carefully inflated, which helps restore the height and shape of the collapsed bone. Once the balloon is removed, the resulting cavity is filled with a cement-like material. The goal of kyphoplasty is to relieve pain and stabilize the fractured bone.
Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
The sacroiliac (SI) joint connects the hip bones to the sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine. This joint is responsible for absorbing shock between the upper body and the lower body. SI joint dysfunction can be a significant source of lower back, buttock, or leg pain. When non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medication, or joint injections do not provide adequate relief, a sacroiliac joint fusion may be an option.
This surgical procedure is designed to eliminate motion at the SI joint, which is often the source of the pain. Using minimally invasive techniques, a surgeon makes a small incision. Through this incision, implants are placed across the sacroiliac joint to fuse the bones together. These implants, which may be bone grafts, create a stable connection that prevents movement. New bone grows over and around the implants over time, creating a solid, permanent fusion.
Lumbar Decompression
Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal in the lower back narrows. This narrowing can put pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves branching out from it. The pressure can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.
When conservative treatments fail to alleviate these symptoms, a surgical procedure called lumbar decompression may be recommended. Minimally invasive lumbar decompression aims to relieve pressure on the nerves while minimizing damage to the surrounding muscles and tissues. By using specialized instruments and small incisions, the surgeon can access the spine without the need for a large opening. This approach can result in less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a quicker return to daily activities compared to traditional open surgery.
Speak to an Orthopedics Specialist
Procedures like kyphoplasty, SI joint fusion, and minimally invasive lumbar decompression represent a shift toward less disruptive treatments with faster recovery profiles. These techniques are tailored to address specific musculoskeletal conditions with high precision. To understand if one of these procedures is appropriate for your specific situation, a discussion with a qualified orthopedic surgeon is necessary. An orthopedic specialist can perform a thorough evaluation, diagnose the source of your symptoms, and explain the full range of available treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical.
