Percutaneous vertebral augmentation in special Genant IV osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

BACKGROUND: Percutaneous vertebral augmentation is widely used for treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). Bony encroachment in the spinal canal can be detected in some severe cases, increasing the difficulty of operation and risks of perioperative complications. PURPOSE: A special type of OVCF has been introduced, and the clinical efficacy of vertebral augmentation has been evaluated in treating this special OVCF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The medical history of patients with OVCF treated with vertebral augmentation was reviewed. The vertebral body height and local kyphotic angle were measured and calculated on the lateral plain radiographs. The visual analogue scale and Oswestry Disability Index were assessed preoperatively, two days after operation, and at final follow-up periods. Complications such as cement leakage and recurrent vertebral fractures were also recorded and followed up. RESULTS: Twenty-nine patients with special Genant IV OVCF accepted vertebral augmentation, and 28 of them were followed up. The mean follow-up duration was 21.9 months, ranging from 17 to 34 months. The lateral plain radiographs revealed significant restoration of vertebral body height and local kyphotic angle. Both visual analogue scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores showed improvement 2 days after surgery and at final follow-up. Four patients experienced asymptomatic cement leakage, and 6 patients suffered OVCF recurrence in other segments. CONCLUSION: Despite a great challenge, vertebral augmentation can be considered as a safe and effective option for treating special the Genant IV OVCF, showing significant restoration of vertebral body height, local kyphotic angle, and daily life function. THE TRANSLATIONAL POTENTIAL OF THIS ARTICLE: Vertebral augmentation has been proven a safe and effect surgery method for special Genant IV OVCF. While surgery complications related to the commercially available filling material – polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is common and inevitable. Hence, this article is aimed to provide practical surgical techniques and suggestions to the modification of PMMA and fabrication of newly developed bone cements.