[Sintering prophylaxis of a vertebral body replacement: anterior cement augmentation of vertebral end plates]

Due to the increasing number of elderly patients with osteoporosis, the incidence of more complex operations demanding a vertebral body replacement is increasing in this population. Cement augmentation of pedicle screws helps to prevent screw pullout. Similarly it is possible to augment the end plates in anterior spine surgery in order to prevent cage subsidence. The technique is simple, quick and safe, as needles can be placed under visual control. In a series of 20 patients neither surgery-related complications nor aseptic loosening were found.