Introduction:

The treatment algorithm for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) has completely transformed with the inclusion of kyphoplasty in the surgical routine. The objective of this work is to review the clinical and radiological outcomes of kyphoplasty in the treatment of OVCF.

Materials & Methods:

55 patients suffering from 70 OVCFs were treated with kyphoplasty between 2002 and 2011. Anterior, middle and posterior height losses and kyphosis changes were radiologically investigated, and the VAS and ASIA scores were reviewed.

Results:

The mean duration of the phenomena was 69.3 days. The mean VAS scores were found to be 7.2 ± 0.8 preoperatively, and 1.2 ± 1.1 postoperatively (p<0.05). The vertebral body height restoration was found to be 39.4 ± 25.6%, 50.7 ± 23.2% and 46.1 ± 34.8%, in the anterior, middle and posterior parts of the vertebrae, respectively (p<0.05). Cement leakage was observed at 16 (22.8%) levels following PMMA injection, and a significant relationship was found between cement leakage and the amount of cement applied (p<0.05). Acute fractures showed significantly better vertebral body height restoration than subacute cases (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Kyphoplasty is an effective treatment for OVCF. A bilateral approach was not superior to a unilateral approach in terms of the management of pain. Early kyphoplasty is one of the most important factors affecting restoration. Aggressive cement injection should be avoided.

Keywords: Kyphoplasty, osteoporotic vertebral fractures, surgical treatment, complications