Percutaneous Vertebroplasty Group Research Articles

03:27 PM Abstract No. 299 Percutaneous vertebroplasty is not a risk factor for new fractures and protects against further height loss: results from VERTOS IV

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PV) is an alternative option to treat pain after an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF). Controversy exists as to whether PV increases the risk for new OVCFs or prevents further vertebral height loss in treated levels. We assessed both during one year follow-up in patients with acute OVCF randomised to PV or a sham procedure. VERTOS IV is a prospective multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing PV with sham therapy in 180 patients. New OVCFs and further vertebral height loss were assessed at 3, 6 and 12 months. After a median follow-up of 12 months (interquartile range (IQR)= 12-12) 31 new fractures were reported in 15 patients from the PV group and 28 new fractures in 19 patients from the sham group. The difference in incidence was not significant (F(1,522)=0.277, p=0.60). There was no higher fracture risk for adjacent versus distant vertebrae. After sham procedure, further height loss of treated vertebrae occurred more frequently (7 patients in the PV group and 36 in the sham group- (F(1,1222)=12, p < .001) and was more severe (p < .001) than after PV. PV does not increase the risk of OVCFs in the first year after cementation when compared to a sham procedure. The risk of further vertebral height loss is significantly higher after sham intervention, i.e., cementation protects against progressive vertebral body collapse.

Bracing after percutaneous vertebroplasty for thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures was not effective.

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of bracing after percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF).MethodsThis is a retrospective study where we recruited 138 patients with single-level thoracolumbar OVCF who underwent PVP from January 2018 to March 2018 without bracing after PVP (Group A). The visual analog score (VAS) and vertebral body compression ratio (VCR) were recorded at preoperation, on the second day, at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months after operation. Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) was recorded at preoperation, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months after operation. Propensity score matching identified 138 historical patients (Group B) as controls, who used rigid brace for 3 weeks after the surgery, from January 2017 to December 2017 using six independent variables (preoperation): age, sex, VAS, ODI, bone mineral density, and body mass index. The indicators and complications were compared between the two groups.ResultsCompared with preoperation, VAS and VCR were significantly improved (P<0.05) in both groups on the second day after operation. At 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months after PVP operation, ODI, VAS, and VCR were all significantly improved than at preoperation (P<0.05). There were no statistical differences between the two groups in VAS and VCR on the second day, at 1 month and 6 months after PVP (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between Groups A and B in ODI at 2 weeks and 6 months after operation (P<0.05) but ODI for Group B at 1 month after operation was significantly higher than Group A (P<0.05). Eleven cases in Group A and 13 cases in Group B had poor pain relief on the second day after operation, and there were no significant differences in VAS and ODI between the two subgroups at 2 weeks, 1 month, and 6 months after PVP. There were no significant differences in the collapse and refracture rates between the two groups.ConclusionIn summary, in terms of quality of life and complications after operation, postoperative bracing did not result in improved outcomes. Presence or absence of bracing did not relieve postoperative residual pain. In contrast, bracing for 3 weeks after operation reduced the quality of life in the short term.

Percutaneous Vertebral Augmentation for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture in the Midthoracic Vertebrae (T5-8): A Retrospective Study of 101 Patients with 111 Fractured Segments

Data reporting percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) or percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty (PKP) application to the midthoracic vertebrae remain limited. This study aimed to summarize our experiences and explore the efficacy and safety of PVP or PKP in dealing with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) in the midthoracic vertebrae. Patients receiving PVP or PKP for midthoracic OVCF in our institution from January 2015 to January 2018 were retrospectively enrolled. All patients were grouped according to cement augmentation procedure types, surgical approaches, and puncture routes. All patients underwent a postoperative follow-up of 2-36 months. Visual analog scale (VAS) and ECOG Scale of Performance Status scores were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. Cement distribution and rate of cement leakage were assessed by radiographs. Associations of these variables and clinical scores and radiographic indices were analyzed. A total of 101 consecutive patients with 111 fractured centrums were enrolled. Both VAS and ECOG Scale of Performance Status scores of all patients decreased significantly after the operation, and progressively decreased at the final follow-up. The cement distribution of the bipedicular group was significantly better than the unipedicular group, but the total leakage rate of the former (71.7%) was significantly higher than the latter (43.1%). The rate of epidural cement leakage in the PKP group (5.4%) was significantly lower than that of the PVP group (20.3%), whereas the left puncture group (28.6%) was significantly higher than that of the right puncture group (2.7%). PKP and a bipedicular approach can help improve cement distribution and reduce the epidural cement leakage rate and therefore should be preferred over PVP or a unipedicular approach in OVCF of the midthoracic vertebrae.

Which one is more effective for the treatment of very severe osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: PVP or PKP?

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy and safety of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) in the treatment of the elderly with very severe osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (vsOVCFs).MethodsFrom September 2012 to September 2015, 57 patients with vsOVCFs who had undergone PVP and PKP surgeries at our medical center were reviewed retrospectively, at least 2 years follow-up. All patients were divided into PVP group (n=31) and PKP group (n=26). Clinical data including clinical and radiological evaluation results were performed pre- and postoperatively.ResultsThe operation time of PVP group (29.6±3.3 minutes) was less than that of PKP group (37.4±4.2 minutes), with significant differences (P<0.05). Compared with preoperative data, the VAS scores, Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores, and local kyphotic angle were improved with significant differences at 1 day after surgery and the last follow-up in two groups (P<0.05). However, there were no differences in VAS and ODI scores between the two groups (P>0.05). The local kyphotic angle of PVP group was more than that of PKP group after surgery, with significant differences (P<0.05). At 1 day after surgery and the last follow-up, the anterior height of vertebrae fractured was significantly improved compared with preoperative in PKP group (P<0.05), and there was no statistical difference compared with preoperative in PVP group (P>0.05). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the leakage rate of bone cement (P>0.05) and incidence of adjacent-level vertebra fracture (P>0.05).ConclusionBoth PVP and PKP can significantly relieve the pain of the patients with vsOVCFs. Restoring the vertebral height and local kyphotic angle corrections of PKP are comparatively better than those of PVP. However, the operation time of PKP is significantly longer than that of PVP and PKP is not superior in the leakage rate of bone cement and incidence of adjacent-level vertebra fracture compared to PVP.

Earlier Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Compression Fracture May Minimize the Subsequent Development of Adjacent Fractures: A Retrospective Study

Background: Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is widely used to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). The influence of timing (early vs. late) of PVP on the development of adjacent vertebral fractures (AVF) has rarely been discussed. Objective: This study aimed to compare the incidence of AVF among patients who received early PVP (≤ 30 days after symptom onset, EPVP) or late PVP (&gt; 30 days after symptom onset, LPVP) in the thoracolumbar region (T10 to L2) after a 1-year follow up. Study Design: A retrospective cohort study. Setting: Department of Orthopedic, an affiliated hospital of a medical university. Methods: Patients who had single-level, T-score ≤ -2.5 of lumbar bone mineral density (BMD), primary OVCF in the thoracolumbar region (T10 to L2) and who received PVP between July 2012 and June 2014 were included in the study. They were divided into early PVP and late PVP groups according to the interval between symptom onset and treatment. The risk factors associated with subsequent AVFs were analyzed. Results: Of the 225 patients reviewed, 124 met the criteria and were followed for a minimum of 1 year. Eleven patients (14.1%) in the EPVP group (n = 78) and 18 patients (39.1%) in the LPVP group (n = 46) experienced an AVF during the first year following vertebroplasty. Outcomes were significantly better in patients with higher bone mineral density, lower cement volume, and without cement leakage (P &lt; 0.01). Cox regression indicated an increase risk for AVF for LPVP, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 6.08 (95% confidence interval: 2.50–14.81). Limitation: The incidence of AVFs could be over estimated due to this being a retrospective study with a small case number and lack of either biomechanical study of intra-vertebral cement distribution by times to support the result. Conclusions: Compared with later interventions, PVP performed within 30 days after fracture development may be associated with a lower risk of adjacent fractures in the thoracolumbar region. Key words: Percutaneous vertebroplasty, osteoporosis, osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture, adjacent vertebral fracture

Comparison of the clinical effects of percutaneous vertebroplasty and percutaneous kyphoplasty in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

Objective To investigate the effect and safety of percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP) and percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP) in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, thus to provide reference for clinical treatment. Methods 67 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures were selected as study subjects.According to the different operation type, the patients were divided into PVP group(n=32) and PKP group(n=35). The operation condition, pain degree, relative height of vertebral body, Cobb angle and incidence of cement leakage were compared between the two groups. Results The operation time, X-ray times, bone cement injection volume, postoperative injury vertebral height of the PKP group were significantly higher than those of the PVP group(all P 0.05). Conclusion PVP and PKP are the effective methods for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, which can significantly improve the degree of pain in patients, but PKP surgery is more conducive to promote the restoration of vertebral height, and can reduce the occurrence of bone cement leakage. Key words: Fractures, compression; Osteoporotic fractures; Percutaneous vertebroplasty; Percutaneous kyphoplasty; Clinical effect

Percutaneous vertebroplasty and open vertebroplasty for metastatic spinal tumor

To explore the clinical application and therapeutic effect of percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP) and open vertebroplasty for metastatic spinal tumor. The clinical data of 126 patients with metastatic spinal tumor underwent surgery and obtained follow-up from January 2012 to March 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. These 126 cases were divided into two groups according to different operative methods. The metastatic tumor of 43 cases encroached vertebral canal oppressing spinal cord and nerve root, they were treated with open operation(open vertebroplasty group);and other 83 cases without obviously spinal cord or nerve root compression, or unfit for open operation, were treated with PVP (percutaneous vertebroplasty group) . VAS score, ECOG and Frankel grade were used to evaluate the pain and neurofunction in two groups.All out-hospital patients were followed up every 3 months for 1 time. X-ray, CT, MRI were examined in follow-up. A total of 112 vertebrae underwent PVP with the median surgical time of 50 min;VAS scores decreased significantly at 2 days after operation, which maintained till 1 month later; ECOG grade at 1 month decreased significantly;44 of 112 vertebrae suffered from asymptomatic bone cement leakage, no complications such as nerve injury or pulmonary embolism was found; the median survival time was 16 months. While for open vertebroplasty group, the median surgical time was 160 min and blood loss was 1 000 ml; postoperative VAS scores and ECOG grade at 1 month decreased significantly. Postoperative Frankel grade of 36 patients got improvement in 41 patients with spinal cord functional disturbance(87.8%); and 29 of 40 patients with incompleteness out of motor function were full recovery(76.3%); 12 cases (27.9%) occurred complications and the median survival time was 11 months. The different vertebroplasty treatments can be selected for patients with metastatic spinal tumor, which can relieve the pain, improve the nerve function, reconstruct the spinal stabilization, maintain the local control and raise the life quality.

The cost effectiveness analysis of minimally invasive surgery and conservative treatment in elderly osteoporotic spinal fracture

To evaluate the cost effectiveness of conservative treatment, percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP)and percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP)for elderly osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture(OVCF). The clinical data of 152 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, collected in the orthopedic department of 309th Hospital of PLA from October 2013 to July 2014, was retrospectively analyzed. According to the therapeutic methods, the patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into conservative treatment group (51 cases), percutaneous vertebroplasty group (50 cases) and percutaneous kyphoplasty group(51 cases). The average medical cost (C) in hospital period and 1 year after discharging, and the treatment effect (E) according to standard of "cure" (VAS score less than or equal to 2) or "improvement" (VAS score was 3 to 8) was recorded. Then the C/E value indicated the cost effectiveness in different standards. The average hospitalization days of the PVP and PKP group was 3 to 5 days with an average of(3.4±0.6) days. The conservative group was 12 to 15 days with an average of (14.0±0.6) days. During the hospitalization period, the cost effectiveness of the conservative group, PVP group and PKP group were RMB 1 253.88, 935.75, 983.99 yuan, respectively, according to the standard of "cure". The PVP group was superior to the PKP group and the latter was superior to the conservative group. If "improvement" was used as the standard of evaluation, the results were RMB 97.80, 449.16, 501.84 yuan, respectively, suggesting that the conservative group was better than the PVP group and the latter was better than the PKP group. After hospital discharge, the cost effectiveness of the conservative group, PVP group and PKP group were RMB 3 834.05, 1 878.41 and 1 916.11 yuan, respectively, according to the standard of "cure". The PVP group was superior to the PKP group and the latter exceeded the conservative group. The study showed that the PVP was the best choice at the evaluation criterion of "cure", while taking "improvement" as the evaluation criterion, the conservative treatment was the best one. Either way, the PVP was the best choice after hospital discharge.

Surgical options for delayed osteoporotic vertebral collapse

To investigate the surgical options and clinical effects of delayed osteoporotic vertebral collapse. From May 2010 to October 2014, 19 patients (20 vertebrae) with delayed osteoporotic vertebral collapse(Kümmell's disease) were enrolled in this study. There were 7 males and 12 females, aged from 65 to 87 years old with a mean of (73.5±5.62) years. According to Li staging system of Kümmell's disease, 3 cases were stage II, 13 cases (14 vertebrae) were stage III without spinal cord injury, 3 cases were stage III with spinal cord injury. Patients were respectively treated with percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP) or percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP) on the basis of the degree of postural reduction during operation. Injected cement volume, cement leakage, vertebral height restoration and local kyphotic reduction were observed. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index(ODI) were respectively used to assess the pain and function before and after operation. Frankel grade were used to evaluate neurological status. Seven vertebrae with satisfactory postural reduction were treated with PVP, 13 vertebrae with unsatisfactory postural reduction were treated with PKP, 3 patients with spinal cord injury were treated with decompression and posterior short segment fixation at the same time. All patients were followed up from 10 to 48 months with an average of 21.2 months. Cement leakage occurred in 4 cases with no symptom, 1 cases in PVP group and 3 cases in PKP group, there was no significant difference between two groups(P=0.561). The priming volume of cement was (6.40±0.94) ml in PVP group and (5.46±1.09) ml in PKP group (P>0.05). Three days after operation vs preoperation, the vertebral height restoration and kyphotic improvement was(31.71±11.35)%, (9.79±4.64)° in PVP group and (24.77±8.51)%, (8.15±2.97)° in PKP. There was no significant difference between two groups(P>0.05). Three days after operation, VAS of low back pain and ODI in all patients were improved than preoperative data(P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between two groups or between postoperative at 3 d and final follow up(P>0.05). Nerve function of 3 patients underwent decompression and fixation from Frankel D to E. According to Li staging system and the degree of introperative postural reduction, individualized surgical treatment for Kümmell's disease can obtain good clinical results. Bad postural reduction during operation maybe a risk factor of cement leakage.

Analysis of clinical effects of three operative methods for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture

To explore the clinical outcomes of percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP), percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP) and percutaneous hollow pedicle screw with lateral holes implanted bone cement reinforcement in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture(OVCF). From May 2012 to November 2013, the clinical data of 90 patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture were retrospectively analyzed. According to the different methods of operation, the patients were divided into three groups, including the percutaneous hollow pedicle screw with lateral holes implanted bone cement reinforcement group (group A), percutaneous vertebroplasty group (group B), percutaneous kyphoplasty group (group C), each group had 30 patients. Pre operative, postoperative at 1 day, 3 months, 1 year, the back pain was assessed by visual analogue scale(VAS), and vertebral height compression ratio, Cobb angle were measured by X-rays. All operations were successful and no complications such as postoperative infections and deep vein thrombosis were found. At the final follow up, there were 2 patients with mild postoperative back pain in group A;7 patients with moderate postoperative back pain, 4 patients with severe postoperative back pain, 2 patients with postoperative vertebral refracture in group B; 5 patients with moderate postoperative back pain, 3 patients with severe postoperative back pain, 4 patients with postoperative vertebral refracture in group C. Postoperative VAS, vertebral height compression ratio, Cobb angle of all patients have obviously improved than preoperative(P<0.05). On 1 day, 3 months, 1 year after operation, there was significant difference between group A and group B, C(P<0.05), there was no significant difference between group B and group C(P>0.05). There was no significant difference in group A above items and different times(P>0.05), and there was significant difference in group B, C above items and different times(P<0.05). The effect of PVP and PKP on the immediately postoperative pain relief was more than percutaneous hollow pedicle screw with lateral holes implanted bone cement reinforcement in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture, but, residual back pain can happen in different extent in the patients underwent PVP and PKP. Percutaneous hollow pedicle screw with lateral holes implanted bone cement reinforcement technique has obvious advantage in recovery of the vertebral height, correction of vertebral deformity, reduction of postoperative back pain.

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty Versus Conservative Treatment in Aged Patients With Acute Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Clinical Study.

A prospective randomized clinical trial. In this study, we determine whether percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) offers extra benefits to aged patients with acute osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) over conservative therapy (CV). OVCFs are common in the aged population with osteoporosis. While the optimal treatment of aged patients with acute OVCFs remains controversial, PVP, a minimally invasive procedure, is a treatment option to be considered. Patients aged at 70 years or above with acute OVCF and severe pain from minor or mild trauma were assigned randomly to PVP and CV groups. The primary outcome was pain relief as measured by VAS score in 1-year follow-up period. The second outcome was quality of life assessed with ODI and Quality of Life Questionnaire of the European Foundation for Osteoporosis (QUALEFFO). Patient satisfaction surveys were also recorded. A total of 135 patients were enrolled, and 107 (56 in PVP group; 51 in CV group) completed 1-year follow-up. In PVP group, the vertebroplasty procedure was performed at a mean of 8.4 ± 4.6 days (range, 2-21 days) after onset. Vertebroplasty resulted in much greater pain relief than did conservative treatment at postoperative day 1 (P < 0.0001). At every time point of follow-up, pain relief and quality of life were significantly improved in PVP group than in CV group at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year (all P < 0.0001). The final follow-up surveys indicated that patients in PVP group were significantly more satisfied with given treatment (P < 0.0001). In addition, lower rate of complications was observed in PVP group (P < 0.0001). In aged patients with acute OVCF and severe pain, early vertebroplasty yielded faster, better pain relief and improved functional outcomes, which were maintained for 1 year. Furthermore, it showed fewer complications than conservative treatment. 2.

Double Blind Placebo-controlled Trial of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (VOPE)

Introduction Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF) affect ~20% of postmenopausal women and can lead to long-term disability. Since two double-blind RCTs in 2009, there has been a debate, whether Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP) has any beneficial effects in treating acute osteoporotic VCFs. The two studies have been criticized in order of design and possible bias in results. PVP is a minimally invasive procedure, primarily used in patients with severe pain after VCF. Our objective was to investigate the clinical effects of PVP compared with a SHAM procedure when treating acute osteoporotic VCFs, with intense focus on VAS-activity and the first 3 months postoperative. Material and Methods Study Design - Double-blind randomized controlled trial. 52 patients were included in the study, and they were randomized to either PVP or SHAM, at the Center for Spine Surgery and Research, Middelfart Hospital. During the trial period 4 patients were excluded due to need for further spine surgery, and 2 patients excluded due to malignancy in peroperative biopsy. During the trial patients, investigators collecting data, and the statisticians were blinded. Results 46 patients were eligible for statistical analysis, 22 patients in the PVP group and 24 patients in the SHAM group. In both groups the VAS-scores, and health related Quality of life scores (SF-36; PCS-score and Eq. 5D-scores) improved significantly from baseline values ( p &lt; 0.05). There was a statistical significant higher VAS-score in the SHAM-group throughout the trial period ( p = 0.001), with the main contribution from the VAS-activity. Conclusion Our study shows a statistical significant higher VAS-score in the SHAM group during the trial period, both groups improved significantly in all clinical parameters. Focus in the future of PVP and acute OVCFs must be on the 3 months convalescence period and the cost benefit analysis of early mobilization.

Safety and Efficacy Studies of Vertebroplasty, Kyphoplasty, and Mesh-Container-Plasty for the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures: Preliminary Report.

To evaluate the clinical safety and efficacies of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP), percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP), and percutaneous mesh-container-plasty (PMCP) for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), a retrospective study of 90 patients with VCFs who had been treated by PVP (n = 30), PKP (n = 30), and PMCP (n = 30) was conducted. The clinical efficacies of these three treatments were evaluated by comparing their PMMA cement leakages, cement patterns, height restoration percentages, wedge angles, visual analogue scales (VAS), and oswestry disability index (ODI) at the pre- and post-operative time points. 6.67%, 3.33%, and 0% of patients had PMMA leakage in PVP, PKP, and PMCP groups, respectively. Three (solid, trabecular, and mixed patterns), two (solid and mixed patterns), and one (mixed patterns) types of cement patterns were observed in PVP, PKP, and PMCP groups, respectively. PKP and PMCP treatments had better height restoration ability than PVP treatment. PVP, PKP, and PMCP treatments had significant and similar ability in pain relief and functional recovery ability for the treatment of VCFs. These results indicate minimally invasive techniques were effective methods for the treatment of VCFs. Moreover, these initial outcomes suggest PMCP treatment may be better than both PVP treatment and PKP treatment.

An evaluation of the functional and radiological results of percutaneous vertebroplasty versus conservative treatment for acute symptomatic osteoporotic spinal fractures

PurposeThis study aimed to compare the results of the two different treatment regimens (percutaneous vertebroplasty (PV) and conservative treatment (CT)) regarding to efficacy, quality of life, functional and radiological results in patients with acute osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVF). MethodsThe study comprised 83 patients who presented with complaints of OVF associated with osteoporosis and were treated with CT (37) or PV (46). All patients were evaluated according to preoperative and postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI) and plain radiographs. ResultsAll patients in VP group reported a significant decrease in pain at 1st day postoperative. While Pain relief and functional outcomes were significantly better in PV group than CT at 1st and 3rd months according to VAS and ODI scores, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups at 6th months follow-up. The mean preoperative local sagittal Cobb angle (LSCA) and the mean vertebra corpus mid-level height (MVCH) were 42.3° and 14.6mm in the PV group, while they were measured as 39.8° and 15.7mm in CT group, respectively. 15.6° decreasing the LSCA and 10.2mm increasing MVCH were noted in the PV group at the 6th month follow-up. While LSCA increased 19.1° and MVCH decreased 7.6mm in CT group at same time period (p<0.001). ConclusionsCompared to the CT group, PV provides a rapid decrease of pain and an early return to daily life activities. Although improvement was observed on the radiological findings following treatment in the PV group, PV may not enhance the quality of life in patients with acute OVF at 6th months follow up.

A prospective randomized controlled study comparing the pain relief in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with the use of vertebroplasty or facet blocking.

To compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients undergoing percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) versus those undergoing facet blocking (FB) for severe pain due to osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). Two hundred and six patients who had OVCFs on spine radiography and intractable back pain for ≤8weeks were recruited between January 2009 and January 2013 (165 females and 41 males, age ≥55years). Patients were randomly assigned to the PVP group (100 patients) or the FB group (106 patients). VAS, ODI, Roland Morris disability (RMD) scores, scores on the Standardized Physical Component of the SF-36 form (SPC) and scores on the Standardized Mental Component of the SF-36 form (SMC) were determined preoperatively and at each follow-up time (1day, 1week, 1, 3, 6, and 12months). In addition, plain radiographs were obtained at 3, 6, and 12months postoperatively to detect new fractures. Significantly lower VAS, ODI, and RMD scores for patients in the PVP group compared to those in the FB group were observed at follow-up of 1day and 1week (p<0.05). However, differences in the VAS, ODI, RMD and SPC/MCS (SF-36) scores between the two groups at follow-ups of more than 1month were statistically insignificant (p>0.05). Difference in numbers of new fractures in the two groups at the follow-up of 12months was also statistically insignificant. PVP produced better pain relief than FB in the short term (≤1week). However, the difference in pain-relief between these two techniques was insignificant in the long term (follow-up between 1 month and 12months).

Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation with Polymethylmethacrylate Augmentation for the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Intravertebral Pseudoarthrosis Associated with Kummell’s Osteonecrosis

Purpose. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of short-segment percutaneous pedicle screw fixation with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) augmentation for the treatment of osteoporotic thoracolumbar compression fracture with osteonecrosis. Methods. Osteoporotic thoracolumbar compression fractures with avascular necrosis were treated by short-segment PPF with PMMA augmentation. Eighteen were followed up for more than 2 years. The kyphotic angle, compression ratio, visual analog scale (VAS) score for back pain, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) were analyzed. In addition, radiologic and clinical parameters of PPF group were compared with percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) group. Results. Vertebral height and kyphotic angle of the compressed vertebral bodies were significantly corrected after the operation (P < 0.05). Further, restored vertebral height was maintained during the 2 or more years of postoperative follow-up. Compared to the PVP group the postoperative compression ratio and kyphotic angle were significantly lower in the PPF group (P < 0.05). The postoperative ODI and VAS of the PVP group were significantly higher than the PPF (P < 0.05). Conclusions. According to our results, short-segment PPF with PMMA augmentation may be an effective minimally invasive treatment for osteoporosis in cases of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with Kummell's osteonecrosis.

Comparison of percutaneous vertebroplasty and percutaneous kyphoplasty for the management of Kümmell's disease: A retrospective study.

Background:Post traumatic osteonecrosis of a vertebral body occurring in a delayed fashion was first described by the German doctor Kümmell in 1895. Several studies have reported percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP), or percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for Kümmell's disease achieves good outcomes. However, it is unknown whether a technique is superior for the treatment of this disease. The objective of the study is to compare the efficacy of PVP and PKP for the treatment of Kümmell's disease.Materials and Methods:A retrospective review was conducted for 73 patients with Kümmell's disease. PVP was performed in 38 patients and PKP in 35 patients. Visual analogue score (VAS) was used to evaluate pain. The anterior vertebral height was measured. The operative time, the incidence of cement leakage and the costs were recorded.Results:In both PVP group and PKP group, the VAS and anterior vertebral height significantly improved at 1-day postoperatively (P < 0.05), and the improvement sustained at the final followup (P > 0.05). Between the PVP and PKP groups, there were no significant differences in VAS and the anterior vertebral height at 1-day postoperatively and at the final followup (P > 0.05). The operating time and expense in the PKP group were higher than the PVP group (P < 0.001). Cement leakages in the PKP group were fewer than PVP group (P < 0.05).Conclusions:PVP is a faster, less expensive option that still provides a comparable pain relief and restoration of vertebral height to PKP for the treatment of Kümmell's disease. PKP has a significant advantage over PVP in term of the fewer cement leakages.

Percutaneous vertebroplasty combined with percutaneous cement-augmented reduction and internal fix-ation for osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures of Genant type III

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) combined with percutaneous cement-augmented reduction and internal fixation for osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures of Genant type Ⅲ by comparison with pure percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). Methods From January 2011 through June 2012, we treated 56 patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar fracture of Genant type Ⅲ. Of them, 30 were managed by PVP combined with percutaneous cement-augmented reduction and internal fixation and 26 by pure PKP. The 2 groups were similar in general clinical data (P>0.05). They were compared in terms of operation time, blood loss, cement volume, postoperative bedridden time, hospital stay, ratio of anterior heights, cobb angle, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores. Results The patients were followed up for 18 to 24 months (average, 21 months). The PVP group ex-hibited significantly longer operation time, more blood loss, larger cement volume, and longer postoperative bedridden time and hospital stay than the PKP group (P 0.05). Conclusion PVP com-bined with percutaneous cement-augmented reduction and internal fixation may be reliable for osteoporotic thoracolumbar fractures with severe collapse and kyphosis. Key words: Spinal fractures; Osteoporosis; Vertebroplasty; Cement

Minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation combined with percutaneous vertebroplasty for preventing secondary fracture after vertebroplasty.

BackgroundPercutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) could give rise to excellent outcomes and significant improvements in pain, analgesic requirements, function, cost, and incidence of serious complications for thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). But some studies showed the recurrent fracture of a previously operated vertebra or adjacent vertebral fracture after PVP or PKP. The purpose of this study was to compare minimally invasive pedicle screw fixation (MIPS) and PVP with PVP to evaluate its feasibility and safety for treating acute thoracolumbar osteoporotic VCF and preventing the secondary VCF after PVP.MethodsSixty-eight patients with a mean age of 74.5 years (ranging 65 ~ 87 years), who sustained thoracic or lumbar fresh osteoporotic VCFs without neurologic deficits underwent the procedure of PVP (group 1, n = 37) or MIPS combined with PVP (group 2, n = 31). Visual analog scale pain scores (VAS) were recorded and Cobb angles, central and anterior vertebral body height were measured on the lateral radiographs before surgery and immediately, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery.ResultsThe patients were followed for an average of 27 months (ranging 24–32 months). The VAS significantly decreased after surgery in both groups (P < 0.005). The central and anterior vertebral body height significantly increased (P < 0.005), and the Cobb angle significantly decreased (P < 0.05) immediately after surgery in both groups. No significant changes in both the Cobb angle correction and the vertebral body height gains obtained were observed at the end of the follow-up period in group 2. But the Cobb angle significantly increased (P < 0.005), and the central and anterior vertebral body height significantly decreased (P < 0.005) 2 years after surgery compared with those immediately after surgery in group 1, and there were five patients with new fracture of operated vertebrae and nine cases with fracture of adjacent vertebrae.ConclusionsMIPS combined with PVP is a good choice for the treatment of acute thoracolumbar osteoporotic VCF, which can prevent secondary VCF after PVP.

The clinical efficacy of percutaneous vertebroplasty augmentation for the nonmidline pain of the osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture

Objective To assess the effect of percutaneous vertebral augmentation for the relief of pain caused by the osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture(OVCF).Methods 90 patients with OVCF were performed the percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP) or kyphoplasty(PKP).The prevalence of pain,visual analog scales (VAS) of patients before and different time points after operation were observed.Results In 90 cases,44 cases with OVCF were suffered from nonmidline pain,among which 37 cases (48.05％) in the PVP group and 13 cases (53.85％) in the PKP group,the incidence of pain between the two group was not statistically significant(x2 =0.149,P =0.699).There were 20 cases with pain in sacrococcygeal area,8 cases below the xiphoid,6 cases in lateral thorax and 2 cases in chest in the PVP group,and 5 cases in sacrococcygeal area,1 case respectively below the xiphoid and in chest in the PKP group; the VAS score between the two groups before surgery (t =0.22,P =0.825),postoperative instant (t =0.66,P =0.508) and the last follow-up (t =1.13,P =0.263) were not statistically significant; the VAS scores of both groups had significant differences at different time points (FPVP =35.65,PPVP ＜ 0.01,FPKP =30.44,PPKP ＜ 0.01) ;the pain relief was the most significant 72h after operation(t =33.43,P ＜ 0.001).Conclusion The pain is common clinical manifestations in patients with OVCF,the percutaneous vertebral augmentation can effectively alleviate the nonmidline pain caused by the OVCF. Key words: Fractures, compression; Osteoporotic fractures; Vertebroplasty; Pain, postoperative