Patient Stories: Spinal Fractures and Balloon Kyphoplasty

Mr. Luperine suffered from a chronic lung ailment. Doctors prescribed corticosteroids; however, the drugs caused him to lose bone mass and he developed secondary osteoporosis. The resultant compression fracture was so debilitating that he had an infusion pump implanted to manage the pain. Following treatment with Balloon Kyphoplasty, the pump was removed and Mr. Luperine is now happy to be "living and getting around again."

Chris Kern
Former x-ray technician. Age: 84
Diagnosis: Osteoporotic fracture

Ms. Kern lives with her wheelchair-bound roommate in a house in Northern California. One night, a few hours after helping her roommate to bed, she awoke with severe back pain. Over the next four months, Ms. Kern spent time in and out of the hospital, relying on narcotics to control the pain. She couldn't eat, and lost over 30 pounds. Finally, she insisted that a back x-ray be taken and reviewed by an orthopaedic surgeon. In August, 2003, four spinal compression fractures were found. After having Balloon Kyphoplasty, she says the difference in the way she feels is "like night and day."

Ellen Simpson, M.D.
Retired pediatric cardiologist. Age: 86
Diagnosis: Osteoporotic spinal fracture

Dr. Simpson had already been diagnosed with osteopenia and was undergoing pharmacologic treatment for her condition. She recalls a Thanksgiving Day party in which she spent most of the day sitting hunched over because of back pain. The morning after the party, the pain made it difficult to get out of bed. Two fractures were treated with Balloon Kyphoplasty in January, 2003. Now, Dr. Simpson takes delight in her renewed ability to bend and move. "My friends," she says, "tell me I look 15 years younger!"

As you read this, please keep in mind that all treatment and outcome results are specific to the individual patient. Results may vary. Complications, such as infection, blood loss, or nerve damage are some of the potential adverse risks of spinal surgery. Please consult your physician for a complete list of indications, warnings, precautions, adverse events, clinical results, and other important medical information.