How will I recover following the operation?

Swift mobilisation

Immediately after the operation you will still feel a bit tired on account of the anaesthetic, but the next day you will be able to get up and thus exercise your spine again. Usually the intensity of pain diminishes considerably shortly after the operation, therefore allowing swift mobilisation.

Question: Why are patients mobilised so quickly after the operation?: The bone cement injected into the vertebral bodies sets within just a few minutes so it makes firm bond with the vertebral body. This means that the spine can be subjected to exercise again on the day after the operation.

Rapid, long-term pain relief

Studies have demonstrated that patients are highly satisfied both with vertebroplasty and with kyphoplasty:

80% to 95% of patients treated reported much less or even no pain. In many cases it is possible to change the previous pain medication; the dose can be reduced or it may be possible to switch to a different drug. As a result most patients can adequately cope with everyday life again after the operation. It also has an effect on the quality of life; vitality and psychological well-being improve significantly.

Follow-up examinations

After a vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty you should visit your doctor at regular, fixed intervals for follow-up examinations. He will ask you about your well-being, examined the spine clinically and make arrangements for an X-ray examination. He can check the outcome of the operation and establish whether there have been any further vertebral body fractures.

Further treatment of osteoporosis

If you are suffering from osteoporosis, it is by no means cured as a result of the operations described. Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty can only relieve symptoms of osteoporosis! For this reason you should always continue taking your osteoporosis medication as agreed with your doctor.

Question: What can I do myself for my spine?: With your active cooperation you can help to achieve physical and emotional well-being despite your spinal disorder.
• Try to reduce any excess weight. This will relieve your spine and help prevent any further vertebral body fractures.
• Take as much exercise as you are able to. Gentle stamina training in the form of power walking or swimming leads to an improved general state of health.
• Avoid sports where high loads are involved or there is a risk of falling.
• Strengthen your back muscles by performing regular physiotherapy exercises.
• Avoid lifting and carrying heavy loads.
• Pay attention to your diet if you are suffering from osteoporosis. In particular, you should consume calcium-rich dairy products and cereals.