Vertebral augmentation with radiofrequency ablation for vertebral hemangioma in pediatric patient: A case report

Vertebral hemangiomas are benign lesions of the spine with multiple treatment options and variable management pathways. Specifically, there is a lack of reported data on vertebral augmentation combined with radiofrequency ablation of vertebral hemangiomas in children. This case study presents a successful outcome using this method. A 17-year-old female presented with history of several years of focal, low back pain who failed conservative treatments and found to have a T12 vertebral hemangioma with superior endplate irregularity, without extra-osseous extension. Unipedicular, balloon-assisted, vertebral augmentation was performed with radiofrequency ablation under general anesthesia with biplanar fluoroscopic guidance. CT and fluoroscopic imaging demonstrated complete coverage of the hemangioma. No cement extravasation or neurological deficits were observed. The patient was discharged 2-hours post procedure without significant pain. At 1-month follow up, patient reported complete resolution of pain symptoms. At 6-month follow up, patient continues to report no pain or adverse effects.