Choosing Between Kyphoplasty Devices and Techniques: What Clinicians and Patients Discuss (Balloon vs SpineJack vs Cement Types)

Medicine Made Simple Summary

Kyphoplasty has evolved with new devices and materials that improve safety and outcomes. Patients now hear terms like “balloon kyphoplasty,” “SpineJack,” and “high-viscosity cement” — but few know what they mean. This article explains, in plain language, how different kyphoplasty systems work, how they compare, and what doctors discuss when choosing between them. You’ll learn how these options affect recovery, pain relief, and stability so you can understand your doctor’s recommendations with clarity and confidence.

Kyphoplasty in Simple Terms

Kyphoplasty is a procedure that stabilizes a compression fracture — a collapsed vertebra that causes back pain. During the procedure, a doctor creates space inside the fractured bone and fills it with medical cement. This stabilizes the spine and often relieves pain quickly.

Over time, different devices and materials have been developed to improve results. The main goal is the same — relieve pain and restore strength — but the tools and techniques can vary. The three most common approaches today are balloon kyphoplasty, SpineJack system, and vertebral stenting.

1. Balloon Kyphoplasty

Balloon kyphoplasty is the most widely used technique. A small balloon is inserted into the fractured bone and gently inflated to lift the collapsed vertebra. The balloon is then removed, and the cavity is filled with bone cement.

Pros:

• Helps restore height and spinal alignment.

• Creates a controlled space for cement, reducing leakage risk.

• Has a long record of safety and success.

Limitations:

• The bone height restoration can sometimes settle over time.

• Slightly higher cost compared to vertebroplasty.

2. SpineJack System

The SpineJack system works like a miniature car jack inside the bone. Instead of a balloon, it uses a tiny metal implant that expands vertically to restore height. The implant stays in place permanently, and cement is injected around it for support.

Pros:

• Provides precise and sustained height restoration.

• Reduces the risk of the vertebra collapsing again.

• Spreads pressure evenly across the bone.

Limitations:

• Slightly more complex and expensive.

• Requires specialized training and equipment.

For patients with severe collapse or multiple fractures, SpineJack may offer longer-lasting alignment correction.

3. Cement Types and Their Role

The cement used in kyphoplasty — typically polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) — hardens quickly and provides immediate stability. However, not all cements are identical.
Newer high-viscosity cements are thicker, allowing more controlled injection and reducing leakage risk. Some versions contain calcium phosphate, which gradually integrates with natural bone, offering a more biologically friendly option.

The type of cement your doctor uses depends on bone quality, fracture shape, and personal preference.

What Clinicians Discuss When Choosing a Technique

When doctors decide which device or material to use, they weigh factors like:

• Fracture pattern: clean break vs. crushed bone.

• Bone quality: degree of osteoporosis.

• Patient’s activity level: mobility and lifestyle needs.

• Previous fractures: existing cement or implants.

• Cost and insurance coverage.

While patients may not always choose the device themselves, understanding the differences helps in asking better questions and making shared decisions.

Does the Device Choice Affect Recovery?

Most patients recover similarly regardless of the system used. The biggest differences are seen in severe fractures, where SpineJack or stent-assisted methods can restore more height and reduce spinal curvature. For mild fractures, balloon kyphoplasty and newer cement formulas work just as well.

Pain relief rates remain high — typically 80–90% of patients report significant improvement within days. What matters most is not the device alone, but the experience of the surgeon and timing of treatment.

What Patients Should Ask

1. Which kyphoplasty system do you recommend for my fracture?

2. How does your chosen device reduce leakage risk?

3. What type of cement will you use, and why?

4. Have you used the SpineJack or balloon system before, and how do results compare?

5. What’s the recovery time difference between these options?

These questions help you take part in the decision, ensuring you understand not only what will be done, but why.

Conclusion

If your doctor has recommended kyphoplasty, ask them which device or cement they plan to use and what makes it suitable for your fracture type. Understanding these details empowers you to make confident, informed choices about your care. Remember — your questions lead to better treatment outcomes.