Modified extrapedicular kyphoplasty for the treatment of lumbar compression fracture: Case report and technical note

Traditionally, transpedicular approach was used in the treatment of osteoporotic lumbar compression fracture. In order to avoid the risks of pedicle disruption and spinal canal intrusion, extrapedicular approache has been attempted. The aim of the article is to present the modified extrapedicular kyphoplasty technique for the treatment of osteoporotic lumbar compression fracture.

A 62-year-old woman suffered from severe low back pain after an accidental fall 10 days ago. Low back pain was obvious when turning over and getting out of bed. It was not relieved after bed rest and conservative treatment. Visual analog scale (VAS) of low back pain was 8 points and Oswestry disability index score was 80%.

Magnetic resonance imaging showed osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture of L2 and L3.

We performed modified extrapedicular kyphoplasty for the patient. The technique has a standardized operating procedure. The puncture point of skin is determined according to preoperative computer tomography and X-ray. The puncture point of vertebral body is located at the outer upper edge of the pedicle. The puncture direction is from the upper edge of the pedicle to the lower edge of the contralateral pedicle.

The operation time was 20 minutes. The intraoperative blood loss was 5 mL. The amount of bone cement was 4 mL in L2 and 5 mL in L3. VAS of low back pain was 2 points in 1 day after surgery. Preoperative symptoms were significantly improved.

Modified extrapedicular kyphoplasty is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of osteoporotic lumbar compression fracture, which should be promoted and applied.