NSPC’s Dr. Kendall offers Innovative Treatment – Balloon Kyphoplasty

Dr. Dan Kendall, of National Spine and Pain Centers in McLean, Virginia recently became the first doctor in the DC Metropolitan area to use the new Stryker Avaflex balloon system to treat a vertebral compression fracture (VCF) during a balloon kyphoplasty procedure.

Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment for vertebral compression fractures. In a standard balloon kyphoplasty, two trocars are inserted into the fractured vertebrae. Balloon catheters are then inserted through the trocar needles and inflated to create a void in the collapsed vertebra, gently lifting the bone fragments into their correct position helping to control and contain the bone cement delivery. The hardened bone cement creates an internal cast in the fractured vertebrae stabilizing the fracture and alleviating pain.

In using Stryker’s Avaflex technology, Dr. Kendall was able to treat the patient using only one trocar while still achieving the results he look for with using two trocars. Using one trocar is less traumatic for the patient and further minimizes any risk for infection.

Dr. Kendall performs balloon kyphoplasty’s at his McLean, Virginia office. With the advancement of technology in treating VCF’s, patients no longer have to go to the hospital and are able to receive the treatment without receiving general anesthesia. Dr. Kendall now is able to treat his patients with painful compression fractures with a short 20 minute procedure and mild sedation. This allows the patient to be treated as out-patient enabling them to walk out of the office when released.

"I am always looking for the best and most effective way to treat my patients. Typically, my patients with VCF’s are elderly and in severe pain. Stryker’s Avaflex balloon technology allows me to perform a balloon kyphoplasty procedure more quickly and efficiently while still delivering great results.” – Dan Kendall, D.O.