Spinal augmentation for vertebral body fractures in the elderly population

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Geriatric Medicine
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Osteoporotic vertebral body fractures (OVBFs) are a significant health issue in the elderly, causing height loss and kyphosis.
• Minimally invasive techniques like percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) and vertebroplasty (PVP) are common, but their efficacy in older adults requires evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of PKP and PVP in elderly patients with OVBFs.
• To evaluate these procedures based on established levels of evidence.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing literature was performed.
• Databases were searched for studies on vertebral augmentation in elderly patients.
• Articles were graded using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) levels of evidence.

Main Results:

• Both PKP and PVP are generally safe for elderly patients.
• These procedures effectively reduce pain and can be enhanced with various perioperative strategies.
• Complications include cement extravasation and refracture, potentially more common with PKP.

Conclusions:

• PKP and PVP demonstrate safety and efficacy in improving quality of life for elderly patients with OVBFs.
• Both techniques show effectiveness in anatomical correction.
• Further research with higher evidence levels is needed to clarify differences in complication profiles and optimal adjunctive care.