Surgical intervention as a result of the lumbar fracture.

Neurologic problems may manifest in many ways. Reduced leg strength (paresis) or complete weakness (paralysis) is an obvious problem. Loss of sensation in the lower extremities and in the perianal area (saddle anesthesia) can be just as important. Urinary retention and urinary and fecal incontinence are very important signs that indicate the need for emergency surgery.
Kyphoplasty is similar to vertebroplasty, (see previous post)except a balloon is used to expand the volume of the fractured segment prior to introducing the cement polymer.