ABSTRACT

Vertebral compression fractures may result in pain about the fracture site, loss of height caused by vertebral collapse, spinal instability, and, in many cases, kyphotic deformity. Before the common use of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, the principal surgical option for treatment of compression fractures was either conservative treatment including bed rest, narcotic analgestics and rehabilitation or surgical treatment. Percutaneous cement injection methods for fracture stabilization that reduce or eliminate pain, allowing a return to normal activity in a short period of time with vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty have been gaining popularity for treating vertebral compression fractures. This review article aimes to evaluate efficiency and safety of both techniques regarding benefits and complications in light of a wide scope of literature.