Kyphoplasty & Vertebral Augmentation in Canada

Minimally invasive treatment for vertebral compression fractures using the Stryker AVAflex™ balloon system, designed for targeted cement delivery and reduced surgical trauma.

Request a Consultation (647) 553-1297

Understanding Vertebral Compression Fractures

Vertebral compression fractures occur when the bones of the spine become weakened and collapse, often due to osteoporosis or trauma. These fractures can cause severe back pain, loss of height, and a stooped posture (kyphosis).

Balloon vertebral kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat these painful fractures. During the procedure, a balloon is carefully inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated to create space, then bone cement is injected to stabilize the fracture and support the weakened bone.

Who May Benefit from Kyphoplasty?

Osteoporotic compression fractures
Traumatic vertebral fractures
Painful fractures unresponsive to rest
Vertebral fractures from metastatic cancer

Kyphoplasty is often performed as an outpatient procedure or with a short hospital stay, offering many patients rapid pain relief and early return to daily activities.

Advanced Technology

Stryker AVAflex™ Vertebral Balloon System

Precision instrumentation designed for targeted cement delivery and reduced surgical trauma

Less Invasive Approach

Smaller gauge size helps reduce soft tissue and/or bone trauma compared to conventional systems.

Curved Introducer with PEEK Sheath

Protects the balloon during insertion and allows targeted placement with directional markings to identify curve direction.

Targeted Cement Delivery

Curved needle enables precise cement placement. Depth markings allow accurate positioning for 15, 20, and 30mm balloons.

11G System

Available in 11-gauge size for optimal balance of access and minimal tissue disruption.

Stryker AVAflex Vertebral Balloon System procedure

Stryker AVAflex™ Vertebral Balloon System

Surgical Technique

Step-by-Step Procedure

A minimally invasive, image-guided approach typically performed under local or general anesthesia

1

Insert Needle

Insert the AVAflex® needle with the radiopaque introducer into the vertebral body.

2

Remove Needle

Remove the AVAflex® needle, leaving the introducer in place.

3

Place Balloon

Place the AVAflex® vertebral balloon system down the introducer.

4

Expose Balloon

Expose the AVAflex® vertebral balloon system by retracting the introducer.

5

Inflate Balloon

Inflate the AVAflex® vertebral balloon system to create space and restore height.

6

Deflate & Remove

Deflate the balloon. Remove the introducer and deflated balloon simultaneously.

7

Deliver Cement

Prime the AVAflex® curved needle with bone cement and insert into the vertebral body. Fill with cement.

Key Benefits of the AVAflex™ System

Smaller gauge reduces tissue trauma
Curved needle for targeted delivery
PEEK sheath protects the balloon
Depth markings for accurate placement

Your Spine Specialist

Fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with expertise in minimally invasive spine procedures

Dr. Eric Massicotte
Neurosurgery UofT Professor

Dr. Eric Massicotte

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery

Fellowship-trained neurosurgeon and Official Surgeon of the Toronto Argonauts with expertise in complex spinal conditions and minimally invasive techniques.

Toronto Argonauts View Profile →

Frequently Asked Questions

Kyphoplasty is primarily used to treat vertebral compression fractures caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or certain cancers that have spread to the spine. It may also be used for painful fractures that haven't healed with rest and conservative treatment.

Kyphoplasty typically takes about 30-60 minutes per vertebra treated. Many patients are able to go home the same day or after a short observation period. The actual time depends on the number of vertebrae being treated and individual patient factors.

Many patients experience significant pain relief within hours to days of the procedure. You may be up and walking within a few hours. Most patients can return to normal daily activities within a few days, though lifting heavy objects should be avoided for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your situation.

Both procedures involve injecting bone cement into a fractured vertebra. The key difference is that kyphoplasty uses a balloon to first create a cavity within the bone, which may help restore some vertebral height and allows the cement to be injected at lower pressure. This may reduce the risk of cement leakage.

No referral is required. You can book a consultation directly with our spine specialist to discuss whether kyphoplasty is appropriate for your condition. Recent imaging (MRI, CT, or X-ray) showing the fracture is helpful but not mandatory—we can arrange imaging if needed.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a consultation to discuss whether kyphoplasty could help relieve your compression fracture pain.

Request a Consultation (647) 553-1297