Efficacy of percutaneous kyphoplasty in treating osteoporotic multithoracolumbar vertebral compression fractures

Percutaneous kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive technique that has become an effective and routine alternative for managing osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. This article reports the clinical outcome of a series of 54 cases of osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebrae compression fractures treated by percutaneous kyphoplasty. Fifty-four patients with confirmed osteoporosis and at least 1 level of thoracolumbar vertebrae compression fracture were retrospectively selected. Pre- and postoperative and last follow-up clinical evaluation and radiological data were analyzed, including change of visual analog scale (VAS), reduced use of painkillers, locomotor activity, Cobb's angle, and average vertebral body height. Mean follow-up was 20.4 months (range, 6-36 months). In all cases, percutaneous kyphoplasty treatment was successful, significantly increasing vertebral body height, diminishing kyphosis in the fractured vertebrae, and decreasing painkiller use. In all patients, percutaneous kyphoplasty partially or completely relieved back pain. No new deformity was found within the follow-up period, nor were any other complications. The cement leakage rate was 3.86% (8 of 207 vertebrae) with percutaneous kyphoplasty, but no neurological or other complaints were received. Percutaneous kyphoplasty is a simple and safe procedure in managing osteoporotic vertebrae compression fractures. It relieves pain quickly, restores vertebral height, prevents further fracture, and improves patient quality of life.