Better Outcome after Balloon Kyphoplasty when Compared to Vertebroplasty. Analysis of the Results of a Single Center with a 2 Year Follow up

Abstract

Introduction: Vertebroplasty means the percutaneous introduction of polymethyl methacrylate into the vertebral bodies that have been weakened by osteoporosis or tumors. Many studies presenting the clinical experience with vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty have been published in recent years. Some authors have reported a higher incidence of new fractures after balloon kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty. The natural course of osteoporosis progression, on the other hand, increases the risk of new fractures, increasing the total number of vertebral fractures. The Indications are:Vertebral compression fractures; Osteoporotic fractures; Metastatic bone tumors and the contraindications are: Infection of the fractured vertebra; Acute hemorrhagic diathesis; Known allergy to cement; Pregnancy Purpose: Our aim was to make a comparative analysis of the results after balloon kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty in patients with osteoporotic fractures of the thoracolumbar spine. Conclusion: Despite the statistically insignificant number of patients included in our series, our results emphasize the superiority of balloon kyphoplasia over vertebroplasia. The lack of complications and the immediate verticalization of our patients immediately after the end of the procedure makes us have more confidence in the balloon kyphoplasia procedure.

Keywords

• balloon kyphoplasty
• vertebroplasty
• fractures vertebrae