Percutaneous vertebroplasty: can it be an alternative treatment option for thoracolumbar burst fractures?

Abstract

Objective The incidence of thoracolumbar fractures is increasing in modern society concomitantly with population aging. The role of percutaneous vertebroplasty as a possible treatment option for thoracolumbar fractures remains unclear. Methods In this study, we retrospectively reviewed clinical and radiological factors, including sex, age, bone mineral density, mechanisms of injury, fracture levels, and the Magerl classification in 101 patients (108 vertebral levels) with thoracolumbar burst fractures that were treated with vertebroplasty. Results After vertebroplasty, the mean visual analog scale score immediately decreased from 6.3 to 2.7. The average preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up values of the sagittal index were 9.5°, 7.6°, and 10.0°, respectively. The average preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up canal compromise values were 19.3%, 12.7%, and 18.3%, respectively. No severe complications were associated with the procedure. Canal compromise and the sagittal index remained stable during the immediate postoperative period and even after 3 months postoperatively. Conclusion Vertebroplasty is a promising treatment choice for burst fractures, even in symptomatic patients. Keywords: Spinal fractures; Vertebroplasty; Thoracic vertebrae; Lumbar vertebrae