[Treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression. Explosive interest for vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty]

During the last 15 years, two new treatment strategies have gained worldwide attention in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures. The exponential increase in the use of percutaneous vertebro- or kyphoplasty has up to now not been supported by scientific sound evidence-based data. There exist no prospective randomised controlled trials (RCT) that support the efficacy of the treatments, not even adequate controlled studies. Instead we have to rely on prospective and retrospective uncontrolled short-term observational studies and case-control studies. These studies consistently indicate that the short-term results after the procedures in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures are favourable, regarding both pain relief and functional status. However, if a vertebro- or a kyphoplasty produces a better outcome than conservative treatment, and if the long-term results are as favourable as the short-term results in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures, is currently unknown.