Treatment of Extraspinal Painful Bone Metastases with Percutaneous Cementoplasty: A Prospective Study of 50 Patients

Analgesic efficacy and safety of percutaneous thermal ablation plus cementoplasty for painful bone metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of publications to evaluate the analgesic efficacy and safety of percutaneous thermal ablation (PTA) plus percutaneous cementoplasty (PCP) (PTA + PCP) for painful bone metastases.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library and Embase for articles published up to October 2022. Outcomes were a 10-point pain scale, morphine equivalents daily dose (MEDD) and complications. A subgroup confined to spinal bone metastases was analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-one articles were selected for the analysis. The 21 selected articles involved a total of 661 cases. The pooled pain scales at pre-PTA + PCP, 1 day, 1 week and 1-, 3-, and 6 months post-PTA + PCP were 7.60 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.26-7.95, I2 = 89%), 3.30 (95% CI, 2.25-4.82, I2 = 98%), 2.58 (95% CI, 1.99-3.35, I2 = 94%), 2.02 (95% CI, 1.50-2.71, I2 = 93%), 1.78 (95% CI, 1.26-2.53, I2 = 95%), and 1.62 (95% CI, 1.14-2.31, I2 = 88%), and in the subgroup, 7.97 (95% CI, 7.45-8.52, I2 = 86%), 3.01 (95% CI, 1.43-6.33, I2 = 98%), 2.95 (95% CI, 1.93-4.51, I2 = 95%), 2.34 (95% CI, 1.82-3.01, I2 = 68%), 2.18 (95% CI, 1.57-3.03, I2 = 78%), and 2.01 (95% CI, 1.16-3.48, I2 = 86%). Mean MEDD decreased up to 3 months post-PTA + PCP in 4 articles. The overall pooled major complication rate was 4% (95% CI, 2-6%, I2 = 2%).

CONCLUSIONS

The updated systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that PTA + PCP for painful bone metastases is safe, and can lead to rapid and sustained pain reduction.

Combination of Percutaneous Screw Fixation and Cementoplasty for Lytic Bone Metastases: Feasibility, Safety and Clinical Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate feasibility, safety and efficacy of a combination of screw fixation and cementoplasty for pathologic bone fracture.

METHODS

In this single-center prospective study, all consecutive percutaneous screw fixations under assisted CT guidance for palliation and fracture treatment of pathologic bone fracture were reviewed from July 2019 to February 2021. The primary outcome measure was the procedures' technical success, defined as the correct placement of the screw(s), without any complications. Secondary outcome measures were the safety, the procedures' early analgesic effects and impacts on quality of life at 4 weeks.

RESULTS

Technical success was achieved in 11/11 procedures (100%) among 11 patients. No major complications attributable to the procedure were noted. The mean pain scored significantly decreased at the initial follow-up: 8.0 ± 2.7 versus 1.6 ± 2.5 (p < 0.05). Opioid doses were statistically lower after procedure: 70.9 ± 37 versus 48.2 ± 46 mg/day (p < 0.05). The mean EQ5D score had significantly increased by the early post-procedure consultation: 42.5 ± 13.6 vs 63.6 ± 10.3 (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Combination of percutaneous screw fixation and cementoplasty for pathologic bone fracture is feasible and safe. It is efficient to reduce pain, decrease the consumption of opioids and improve the quality of life at 4 weeks after the procedure.

Interventional Radiology in the Management of Metastases and Bone Tumors

Interventional Radiology (IR) has experienced an exponential growth in recent years. Technological advances of the last decades have made it possible to use new treatments on a larger scale, with good results in terms of safety and effectiveness. In musculoskeletal field, painful bone metastases are the most common target of IR palliative treatments; however, in selected cases of bone metastases, IR may play a curative role, also in combination with other techniques (surgery, radiation and oncology therapies, etc.). Primary malignant bone tumors are extremely rare compared with secondary bone lesions: osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma are the most common; however, the role of interventional radiology in this fiels is marginal. In this review, the main techniques used in interventional radiology were examined, and advantages and limitations illustrated. Techniques of ablation (Radiofrequency, Microwaves, Cryoablation as also magnetic resonance imaging-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound), embolization, and Cementoplasty will be described. The techniques of ablation work by destruction of pathological tissue by thermal energy (by an increase of temperature up to 90 °C with the exception of the Cryoablation that works by freezing the tissue up to -40 °C). Embolization creates an ischemic necrosis by the occlusion of the arterial vessels that feed the tumor. Finally, cementoplasty has the aim of strengthening bone segment weakened by the growth of pathological tissue through the injection of cement. The results of the treatments performed so far were also assessed and presented focused the attention on the management of bone metastasis.

Interventional Palliation of Painful Extraspinal Musculoskeletal Metastases

The musculoskeletal system is commonly involved by metastases, and skeletal-related events such as intractable pain due to direct osseous tumor involvement, pathologic fracture, and neurologic deficits as a result of nerve compression often adversely affect patient's quality of life. There have been substantial advances in percutaneous minimally invasive musculoskeletal oncologic interventions for the management of patients with musculoskeletal metastases including thermal ablations, cementation with or without osseous reinforcement via implants, osteosynthesis, neurolysis, and palliative injections which are progressively incorporated in clinical practice. These interventions are performed, in conjunction with or supplemented by adjuvant radiation therapy, systemic therapy, surgery, or analgesics, to achieve durable pain palliation, local tumor control, or cure. This article reviews minimally invasive percutaneous image-guided musculoskeletal oncologic interventions for the management of patients with extraspinal musculoskeletal metastases.

Multidisciplinary Treatment of Non-Spine Bone Metastases: Results of a Modified Delphi Consensus Process

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Evidence is emerging for new paradigms in the management of non-spine bone metastases.

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Consensus was feasible amongst physicians in both academic and community-based practice settings.

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Topics deemed of highest importance for consensus included referral for surgical stabilization and approach to peri-operative radiation, preferred radiation fractionation and appropriate use of stereotactic techniques, and clinical scenarios classified as potentially “complex” warranting multidisciplinary discussion.

Purpose

Methods and Materials

Results

Conclusions

Reinforced cementoplasty for pelvic tumour lesions and pelvic traumatic fractures: preliminary experience

OBJECTIVES

Pelvic bone pathological lesions and traumatic fractures are a considerable source of pain and disability. In this study, we sought to evaluate the effectiveness of reinforced cementoplasty (RC) in painful and unstable lesions involving the pelvic bone in terms of pain relief and functional recovery.

METHODS

All patients with neoplastic lesion or pelvic fracture for whom a pelvic bone RC was carried out between November 2013 and October 2017 were included in our study. All patients who failed the medical management, patients unsuitable for surgery, and patients with unstable osteolytic lesions were eligible to RC. Clinical outcome was evaluated with a 1-month and 6-month post-procedure follow-up. The primary endpoint was local pain relief measured by the visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients (18 females, 4 males; mean age of 65.4 ± 13.3 years [range 38-80]) presenting with painful and unstable pelvic lesions were treated by RC during the study period. Among the 22 patients, 8 patients presented with unstable pelvic fractures (3 patients with iliac crest fracture, 3 with sacral fractures, and the remaining 2 with peri-acetabular fractures). No procedure-related complications were recorded. All patients had significant pain relief and functional improvement at 1 month. One patient (4.5%) had suffered a secondary fracture due to local tumour progression.

CONCLUSIONS

Reinforced cementoplasty is an original minimally invasive technique that may help in providing pain relief and effective bone stability for neoplastic and traumatic lesions involving the pelvic bone.

KEY POINTS

• Reinforced cementoplasty is feasible in both traumatic fractures and tumoural bone lesions of the pelvis. • Reinforced cementoplasty for pelvic bone lesions provides pain relief and functional recovery. • Recurrence of pelvic bone fracture was observed in 4.5% of the cases in our series.

Bipolar Radiofrequency Ablation of Painful Spinal Bone Metastases Performed under Local Anesthesia: Feasibility Regarding Patient's Experience and Pain Outcome

Background and objectives: To assess the pain relief of bipolar RFA combined or not with vertebroplasty in patients with painful vertebral metastases and to evaluate the feasibility and tolerance of the RFA procedure performed under local anesthesia. Materials and Methods: 25 patients (18 men, 7 women, mean age: 60.X y.o) with refractory painful vertebral metastasis were consecutively included between 2012 and 2019. A total of 29 radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedures were performed under CT guidance, local anesthesia and nitrous oxide inhalation, including 16 procedures combined with vertebroplasty for bone consolidation purposes. Pain efficacy was clinically evaluated using the visual analogue scale (VAS) at day 1, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months, and the tolerance of the procedure was evaluated. Results: Procedure tolerance was graded as either not painful or tolerable in 97% of cases. Follow-up postprocedure mean VAS score decrease was 74% at day 1: 6.6 (p < 0.001), 79% at 1 month: 6.6 (p < 0.001), 79% at 3 months: 6.5 (p < 0.001), 77% at 6 months, and 79% at 12 months: 6.6 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Bipolar RFA, with or without combined vertebroplasty, appears to be an effective and reliable technique for the treatment of refractory vertebral metastases in patients in the palliative care setting. It is a feasible procedure under local anesthesia which is well tolerated by patients therefore allowing to broaden the indications of such procedures. Field of study: interventional radiology.

Bone Metastases: State of the Art in Minimally Invasive Interventional Oncology

Bone is the third most common site involved by cancer metastases, and skeleton-related events such as intractable pain due to direct osseous tumor involvement, pathologic fracture, and neurologic deficits as a consequence of nerve or spinal cord compression often affect patients' functional independence and quality of life unfavorably. The annual medical-economic burden related to bone metastases is a substantial component of the total direct medical cost estimated by the National Institutes of Health. There have been substantial recent advances in percutaneous image-guided minimally invasive musculoskeletal oncologic interventions for the management of patients with osseous metastatic disease. These advances include thermal ablation, cementation with or without osseous reinforcement with implants, osteosynthesis, thermal and chemical neurolyses, and palliative injections, which are progressively incorporated into the management paradigm for such patients. These interventions are performed in conjunction with or are supplemented by adjuvant radiation therapy, systemic therapy, surgery, or analgesic agents to achieve durable pain palliation, local tumor control, or cure, and they provide a robust armamentarium for interventional radiologists to achieve safe and effective treatment in a multidisciplinary setting. In addition, these procedures are shifting the patient management paradigm in modern-era practice. The authors detail the state of the art in minimally invasive percutaneous image-guided musculoskeletal oncologic interventions and the role of radiologists in managing patients with skeletal metastases. ^©RSNA, 2021.

Musculoskeletal Oncologic Interventions: Proceedings from the Society of Interventional Radiology and Society of Interventional Oncology Research Consensus Panel

Musculoskeletal interventions are increasingly used with palliative and curative intent in the multidisciplinary treatment of oncology patients with bone and soft-tissue tumors. There is an unmet need for high-quality evidence to guide broader application and adoption of minimally invasive interventional technologies to treat these patients. Therefore, the Society of Interventional Radiology Foundation and the Society of Interventional Oncology collaborated to convene a research consensus panel to prioritize a research agenda addressing the gaps in the current evidence. This article summarizes the panel's proceedings and recommendations for future basic science and clinical investigation to chart the course for interventional oncology within the musculoskeletal system. Key questions that emerged addressed the effectiveness of ablation within specific patient populations, the effect of combination of ablation with radiotherapy and/or immunotherapy, and the potential of standardization of techniques, including modeling and monitoring, to improve the consistency and predictability of treatment outcomes.

Bone cement as a local chemotherapeutic drug delivery carrier in orthopedic oncology: A review

Metastatic bone lesions are common among patients with advanced cancers. While chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be prescribed immediately after diagnosis, the majority of severe metastatic bone lesions are treated by reconstructive surgery, which, in some cases, is followed by postoperative radiotherapy or chemotherapy. However, despite recent advancements in orthopedic surgery, patients undergoing reconstruction still have the risk of developing severe complications such as tumor recurrence and reconstruction failure. This has led to the introduction and evaluation of poly (methyl methacrylate) and inorganic bone cements as local carriers for chemotherapeutic drugs (usually, antineoplastic drugs (ANPDs)). The present work is a critical review of the literature on the potential use of these cements in orthopedic oncology. While several studies have demonstrated the benefits of providing high local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic side effects, only six studies have been conducted to assess the local toxic effect of these drug-loaded cements and they all reported negative effects on healthy bone structure. These findings do not close the door on chemotherapeutic bone cements; rather, they should assist in materials selection when designing future materials for the treatment of metastatic bone disease.

Musculoskeletal interventional oncology: current and future practices

Management of musculoskeletal (MSK) tumours has traditionally been delivered by surgeons and medical oncologists. However, in recent years, image-guided interventional oncology (IO) has significantly impacted the clinical management of MSK tumours. With the rapid evolution of relevant technologies and the expanding range of clinical indications, it is likely that the impact of IO will significantly grow and further evolve in the near future.

In this narrative review, we describe well-established and new interventional technologies that are currently integrating into the IO armamentarium available to radiologists to treat MSK tumours and illustrate new emerging IO indications for treatment.

French Multidisciplinary Approach for the Treatment of MSK Tumors

Several interventional treatments have recently been integrated into the therapeutic armamentarium available for the treatment of bone tumors. In some scenarios (e.g., osteoid osteoma), interventional treatments represent the sole and definitive applied treatment. Due to the absence of widely shared protocols and the complex multivariate scenarios underlying the clinical presentation of the remaining bone tumors including metastases, therapeutic strategies derived from a multidisciplinary tumor board are essential to provide effective treatments tailored to each patient. In the present review, we present the multidisciplinary therapeutic strategies commonly adopted for the most frequent bone tumors.

Cementoplasty of pelvic bone metastases: systematic assessment of lesion filling and other factors that could affect the clinical outcomes

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate lesion filling and other factors that could affect the clinical outcomes of cementoplasty for pelvic bone metastases.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the files of 40 patients treated for 44 pelvic bone metastases, collected the parameters related to patients (pain relief evaluated on a visual analog scale, subsequent fractures, and need for surgery), lesions (size, cortical breach score, fracture, soft-tissue extension), and cementoplasty procedures (number of needles, volume of cement, percentage of lesion filling, cement leaks, residual acetabular roof defect), and performed a statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The lesions were on average 43.2 mm in diameter and the mean cortical breach score was 2.5 out of 6, with a pathological fracture in 14 lesions. The number of needles inserted was one in 32 out of 44, two in 10 out of 44, and three in 2 out of 44. On average, the volume of cement injected per lesion was 10.3 ml and the filling was 54.8%. Mild or moderate asymptomatic cement leakage occurred in 20 lesions (45.5%). The mean pain score was 84.2 mm before the procedure (with no correlation with lesion size, cortical breach score or fracture) and 45.6 mm at follow-up. The pain relief of 38.6 mm was statistically significant (p < 0.001) and did not correlate with the filling percentage. There were no fractures of the treated lesions at a mean follow-up of 355 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Cementoplasty of pelvic bone metastases appears effective for providing pain relief and may prevent subsequent fractures. We were unable to demonstrate a correlation between the lesion filling and the degree of pain relief.

Minimally Invasive Stabilization Using Screws and Cement for Pelvic Metastases: Technical Considerations for the Pelvic "Screw and Glue" Technique

Metastatic disease involving the pelvis is common, often resulting in significant pain and disability. Several percutaneous interventions for unstable pelvic metastatic disease have been described, including osteoplasty, ablation, and screw fixation, that when used alone or in combination can significantly reduce pain and disability from metastatic bone disease. While it is possible to make a significant impact in patient care with basic principles and techniques, certain advanced techniques can extend the application of percutaneous interventions while minimizing morbidity.

Percutaneous extra-spinal cementoplasty in patients with cancer: A systematic review of procedural details and clinical outcomes

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review of technical details and clinical outcomes of percutaneous extra-spinal cementoplasty in patients with malignant lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PUBMED, MEDLINE, MEDLINE in-process, EMBASE and the Cochrane databases were searched between January 1990 and February 2019 using the keywords «percutaneous cementoplasty», «percutaneous osteoplasty» and «extra-spinal cementoplasty». Inclusion criteria were: retrospective/prospective cohort with more than 4 patients, published in English language, reporting the use of percutaneous injection of cement inside an extra-spinal bone malignant tumour using a dedicated bone trocar, as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with another percutaneous intervention, in order to provide pain palliation and/or bone consolidation.

RESULTS

Thirty articles involving 652 patients with a total of 761 lesions were reviewed. Mean size of lesion was 45mm (range of mean size among publications: 29-73mm); 489 lesions were located in the pelvis, 262 in the long bones of the limbs and 10 in other locations. Cementoplasty was reported as a stand-alone procedure for 60.1% of lesions, and combined with thermal ablation for 26.2% of lesions, implant devices for 12.3% of lesions, and balloon kyphoplasty for 1.4% of lesions. The mean volume of injected cement was 8.8mL (range of mean volume among publications: 2.7-32.2mL). The preoperative visual analogic scores ranged between 3.2 and 9.5. Postoperative scores at last available follow-up ranged from 0.4 to 5.6. Thirteen papers reported a reduction of the visual analogic scores of 5 points or more. Nerve injury was the most frequent symptomatic leakage (0.6%).

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous extra-spinal cementopasty is predominantly performed as a stand-alone procedure and for lesions in the bony pelvis. It appears to be an effective tool to manage pain associated with malignant bone tumours. There is however a lack of standardization of the technique among the different publications.

Percutaneous screw-reinforced cement osteoplasty for palliation of postremission pain in larger lytic sacro-acetabular iliac cavities

We present 2 cases of palliative percutaneous screw fixation for refractory pain from periacetabular residual cavities, after clinical remission, from osteolytic iliac masses involving the cortices of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ). Two patients-1 with a treated 8 cm breast metastasis and another with a treated 14 cm plasmacytoma-were selected for osseous stabilization based on imaging criteria and physical signs of iliac deformability and SIJ dysfunction. Neither lesion exhibited active malignancy following systemic therapy or discrete fracture. Following computed tomography-guided screw fixation across the mass and SIJ, with surrounding cement osteoplasty, to reduce mechanical stress on abnormal bone, both patients reported pain resolution beyond 1-year. This technique may be a suitable palliation even for large treated pelvic metastastic cavities and in the absence of fracture.

The Impact of Zoledronic Acid and Radioactive Iodine Therapy on Morbi-Mortality of Patients with Bone Metastases of Thyroid Cancer Derived from Follicular Cells

OBJECTIVE

Bone metastases bring greater morbi-mortality to patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC). Treatment was limited to radioactive iodine (RAI) and local approaches. Currently, bisphosphonates are included in the therapeutic arsenal. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of bone metastases and their treatment with zoledronic acid (ZA) and RAI therapy.

METHODS

We retrospectively review 50 DTC patients with structurally evident bone metastases followed in a tertiary cancer center from 1994 to 2018. Clinical-pathologic characteristics, skeletal related events (SRE), and therapeutic approaches were recorded.

RESULTS

Among the 50 patients analyzed, 22 underwent ZA adjuvant therapy and 28 did not. Mortality rate was 44%. Those patients presented SREs more frequently (90.9 vs. 67.9% the survival group, p = 0.05) and also had a greater number of bone lesions (40.9 vs. 10.7% had more than 6 metastatic sites, p = 0.03). The same group of patients was analyzed before and after therapy with ZA and the incidence of SRE decreased from 1.81 (0-8) before therapy to 0.29 (0-7) after therapy (p = 0.006). Comparing similar groups of 22 patients treated with ZA with 28 patients not treated, there was a trend of better overall survival (OS) in the group that received this drug (147 vs. 119 months, p = 0.06) and significantly improvement when bone metastases were RAI avid 155 (125-185) versus 120 (85-157) months, p < 0.01. Conclusion : ZA can successfully diminish the chance of having new SRE and possibly affect OS in DTC patients with bone metastases. The positive impact of RAI adjuvant treatment on OS is directly associated with RAI uptake.

Image-Guided Bone Consolidation in Oncology

Occurrence of bone metastases is a common event in oncology. Bone metastases are associated with pain, functional impairment, and fractures, particularly when weight-bearing bones are involved. Management of bone metastases has been improved by the development of various interventional radiology consolidation techniques. Cementoplasty is based on injection of acrylic cement into a weakened bone to reinforce it and to control pain. This minimally invasive technique has proven its efficacy for flat bone submitted to compression forces. However, resistance to torsion forces is limited and, thus, treatment of long bones should be considered with caution. In recent years, variant techniques of percutaneous bone consolidation have emerged, including expansion devices for vertebral augmentation and percutaneous screw fixation for pelvic bone and proximal femur tumors. Research projects are ongoing to develop drug-loaded cements to use them as therapeutic vectors. However, release of drugs is still poorly controlled and conventional polymethylmethacrylate cement remains the gold standard in oncology. Image-guided consolidation techniques enhance the array of treatments in bone oncology. Multidisciplinary approach is mandatory to select the best indications.

Integrated CT-Fluoroscopy Equipment: Improving the Interventional Radiology Approach and Patient Experience for Treatment of Musculoskeletal Malignancies

Integrated CT-fluoroscopy equipment augments the comprehensive approach to the treatment of musculoskeletal (MSK) malignancy by interventional radiology techniques. As the role of minimally invasive treatment expands to meet the highly variable presentation of MSK malignancy, creative solutions to treatment challenges are required to improve locoregional tumor control and durability of pain palliation. Challenges to effective treatment can often be attributed to a combination of aggressive tumor biology, large size, forbidding location, and adverse vascularity. In these cases, a tailored treatment approach may necessitate the application of multiple interventional radiology (IR) techniques that require different image guidance capabilities. Integrated CT-fluoroscopy equipment provides the means to leverage both imaging modalities within the same procedural setting to facilitate the simultaneous application of multiple synergistic treatments and protective measures. This article examines the potential role of hybrid units in the IR treatment of challenging MSK malignancies as a means to empower a paradigm transition for a more comprehensive and patient-tailored approach.

Musculoskeletal Metastases Management: The Interventional Radiologist's Toolbox

The prevalence of patients with painful bone metastases is constantly increasing. This is related to the rising incidence of cancer and increasing life expectancy of patients with metastatic stage. Advances in imaging and development of percutaneous techniques have gradually allowed offering minimally invasive acts on these metastases: cementing, vertebral augmentation, osteosynthesis, percutaneous thermal ablation, neurolysis, embolization. The purpose of this article is to present the main tools available to date for the interventional radiologist so that each participant can understand their functioning, indications, and limits.

Percutaneous image-guided ablation of bone metastases: local tumor control in oligometastatic patients

INTRODUCTION

Percutaneous image-guided cryo- (CA) and radiofrequency- (RFA) ablations have been widely used in the treatment of painful bone metastases (BM). However, paucity of data is available for the performance of these treatments when used with a curative intent. The aim of this study is to investigate the local progression free-survival (LPFS) after radical percutaneous image-guided ablation of BM in oligometastatic patients, and to identify predictive factors associated with local tumor progression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective review of all patients who underwent percutaneous image-guided CA or RFA of BM with a radical intent between 2007 and 2018.

RESULTS

Forty-six patients with a total of forty-nine BM underwent percutaneous image-guided CA (N = 37; 75,5%) or RFA (N = 12; 24,5%). Primary malignancies included thyroid (N = 11, 22.5%), breast (N = 21; 42.9%), lung (N = 8; 16.3%) and other (N = 9; 18,3%) cancers. Additional consolidation was performed after ablation in 20.4% cases (N = 10). Mean follow-up was 34.1 ± 22 months. Local progression at the treated site was observed in 28.5% cases (N = 14); 1- and 2-year LPFS was 76.8% and 71.7%, respectively. Size of BM (>2 cm) predicted local tumor progression (p = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous image-guided locoregional therapies used in the radical treatment of BM in oligometastatic patients demonstrate significant rates of LPFS providing the size of BM ≤2 cm.

Percutaneous Cement Injection for the Palliative Treatment of Osseous Metastases: A Technical Review

The technical art to percutaneous injection of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) cement for the palliative treatment of osseous metastases is not without pitfalls. Pathologic fracture, cortical bone erosion, large lytic tumor, aggressive tumor biology, and tumor vascularity may increase the risk of cement leakage or limit complete consolidation. A calculated and determined approach is often necessary to achieve satisfactory patient-tailored results. This article reviews the challenges and potential complications during the consolidation of osseous metastases. Case examples are presented to facilitate early detection of impending cement leakage, minimize procedural risks, and provide management suggestions for complications. Technical pearls are provided to refine consolidative techniques and improve the comprehensive treatment of painful osseous metastases.

Evaluation of short-term efficacy of extraspinal cementoplasty for bone metastasis: A monocenter study of 31 patients

Objective

To study the effect on pain of per-cutaneous cementoplasty for painful extraspinal bone metastasis.

Method

43 patients with extraspinal bone metastasis were included between April 2006 and October 2014 in this retrospective monocenter study. The primary endpoint was pain level measured on a 0–10 numeric rating scale at week 1 after cementoplasty as compared with pre-cementoplasty. Secondary endpoints were long-term pain level and impact on quality of life and disability.

Results

Mean pain score was 4.2 (SD ±3.6) before cementoplasty and 1.09 (SD ±2.4) at week 1 (p = 0.005) (n = 31 patients). At 22 months after cementoplasty, quality of life and disability improved (according to the patient global assessment) for 47.6% and 52.2% of patients (n = 21patients). We did not find a predictor of good response. Cement leakage was the most common adverse event.

Conclusion

Percutaneous cementoplasty of extraspinal bone metastasis is a rapidly efficient treatment with few adverse events. Its efficacy persists over time, with a benefit for disability and quality of life. Although this technique is only palliative, it should be considered in this situation.

Percutaneous osteoplasty for extraspinal metastases

As an extension of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP), percutaneous osteoplasty (POP) refers broadly to percutaneous bone cement injected into various parts of the body and narrowly to cement injected into extraspinal bone lesions. POP mainly includes such surgeries as percutaneous sacroplasty, percutaneous acetabuloplasty, percutaneous femoral osteoplasty, and percutaneous iliac osteoplasty (Figure 1). Currently, POP is a positive and an effective treatment for extraspinal bone lesions in that it can rapidly relieve pain, effectively prevent pathological fractures, and partially inactivate tumors, with few complications. The aim of this review is to detail the POP techniques and report their safety and efficacy in the treatment of extraspinal metastases.

Palliative Percutaneous Cryoablation and Cementoplasty of Acetabular Metastases: Factors Affecting Pain Control and Fracture Risk

PURPOSE

To characterize the response of patients with acetabular metastases following combined cryoablation and cementoplasty (CCC) for pain palliation and fracture risk reduction, based on completeness of ablation and the presence of pre-existing pathologic fracture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-nine consecutive acetabular CCC procedures were performed in 37 patients (24 M:13F, age 66 ± 8 years). Pain was assessed using a 0-10 numeric rating scale. Development of new or progression of pre-existing fractures and local tumor progression (LTP) were determined on follow-up imaging. Pain score reduction and fracture development rates were compared by ablation completeness and the presence of pre-existing fractures.

RESULTS

Twenty-three of 27 (85%) patients with evaluable pain scores had reduced pain, decreasing from 7.5 ± 2.1 to 3.6 ± 2.6 (p < 0.0001). Of 39 tumors, 28 (72%) were completely ablated with no significant difference in pain reduction after complete versus incomplete ablations (p = 0.9387). Six of 30 (20%) patients with follow-up imaging demonstrated new/progressive acetabular fractures. Four of 5 (80%) patients with LTP developed new/progressive fractures compared to 2 of 25 (8%) without tumor progression (p = 0.0003). Pre-existing fracture was not associated with subsequent fracture/fracture progression (p = 0.2986). However, patients with prior acetabular radiation therapy or surgery had increased fractures following treatment (p = 0.0380).

CONCLUSION

Complete acetabular tumor ablation during CCC was not associated with superior pain relief compared to subtotal ablation but did result in improved fracture stabilization. Pre-treatment pathologic fractures were not associated with fracture progression, but new/progressive fractures were more frequent in patients with prior radiation therapy or surgery.

Metastatic Osseous Pain Control: Bone Ablation and Cementoplasty

Nociceptive and/or neuropathic pain can be present in all phases of cancer (early and metastatic) and are not adequately treated in 56 to 82.3% of patients. In these patients, radiotherapy achieves overall pain responses (complete and partial responses combined) up to 60 and 61%. On the other hand, nowadays, ablation is included in clinical guidelines for bone metastases and the technique is governed by level I evidence. Depending on the location of the lesion in the peripheral skeleton, either the Mirels scoring or the Harrington (alternatively the Levy) grading system can be used for prophylactic fixation recommendation. As minimally invasive treatment options may be considered in patients with poor clinical status or limited life expectancy, the aim of this review is to detail the techniques proposed so far in the literature and to report the results in terms of safety and efficacy of ablation and cementoplasty (with or without fixation) for bone metastases. Percutaneous image-guided treatments appear as an interesting alternative for localized metastatic lesions of the peripheral skeleton.

Use of minimally invasive spine surgical instruments for the treatment of bone tumors

INTRODUCTION

Orthopedic oncologists often encounter patients with minor bony lesions that are difficult to access surgically and therefore require large exposures out of proportion to the severity of disease that confer significant patient morbidity. Minimally invasive surgical techniques offer the advantage of smaller incisions, shorter operative times, decreased tissue damage, and decreased costs. A variety of surgical procedures have emerged using minimally invasive technologies, particularly in the field of spine surgery. Areas covered: In this article, we describe the Minimal Exposure Tubular Retractor (METRx^TM) System which is a minimally invasive surgical device that utilizes a series of dilators to permit access to a surgical site of interest. This system was developed for use in treatment of disc herniation, spinal stenosis, posterior lumbar interbody fusion, transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and spinal cord stimulation implantation. We also describe novel uses of this system for minimally invasive biopsy and treatment of benign and metastatic bone lesions at our institution. Expert commentary: Minimally invasive surgical techniques will continue to expand into the field of orthopedic oncology. With a greater number of studies proving the safety and effectiveness of this technique, the demand for minimally invasive treatments will grow.

Augmented osteoplasty for proximal femur consolidation in cancer patients: Biomechanical considerations and techniques

According to the literature, prophylactic consolidation of lytic metastasis located in the proximal femur is recommended when the Mirels' score is above 8. Osteoplasty alone provides inadequate consolidation but various devices have been used in association for better consolidation. The aim of this review is to detail the augmented osteoplasty techniques published in the literature and to report their safeties and their efficacies to prevent pathological fracture of the proximal femur. A Pubmed research found 5 studies that evaluated augmented osteoplasty of the proximal femur in cancer patients. All devices demonstrate adequate safety and low rate of secondary pathological fractures.

Metastatic bone disease from breast cancer: a review of minimally invasive techniques for diagnosis and treatment

Skeletal-related events in patients with metastatic bone disease include intractable severe pain, pathologic fracture, spinal cord and nerve compression, hypercalcemia and bone marrow aplasia. In patients with breast cancer, the skeleton is the most frequent site for metastases. Treatment options for metastatic bone disease in these patients include bisphosphonates, chemotherapeutic agents, opioids, hormonal therapy, minimally invasive/interventional and surgical techniques. Interventional oncology techniques for breast cancer patients with bone metastases include diagnostic (biopsy) and therapeutic (palliative and curative) approaches. In the latter, percutaneous ablation, augmentation and stabilization are included. The purpose of this article is to describe the basic concepts of biopsy, ablation, embolization and peripheral skeleton augmentation techniques in patients with metastatic bone disease from breast carcinoma. The necessity for a tailored approach applying different techniques for different cases and locations will be addressed.

CT-guided percutaneous screw fixation plus cementoplasty in the treatment of painful bone metastases with fractures or a high risk of pathological fracture

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of computed tomography (CT)-guided percutaneous screw fixation plus cementoplasty (PSFPC), for either treatment of painful metastatic fractures or prevention of pathological fractures, in patients who are not candidates for surgical stabilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-seven patients with 34 metastatic bone lesions underwent CT-guided PSFPC. Bone metastases were located in the vertebral column, femur, and pelvis. The primary end point was the evaluation of feasibility and complications of the procedure, in addition to the length of hospital stay. Pain severity was estimated before treatment and 1 and 6 months after the procedure using the visual analog scale (VAS). Functional outcome was assessed by improved patient walking ability.

RESULTS

All sessions were completed and well tolerated. There were no complications related to either incorrect positioning of the screws during bone fixation or leakage of cement. All patients were able to walk within 6 h after the procedure and the average length of hospital stay was 2 days. The mean VAS score decreased from 7.1 (range, 4-9) before treatment to 1.6 (range, 0-6), 1 month after treatment, and to 1.4 (range 0-6) 6 months after treatment. Neither loosening of the screws nor additional bone fractures occurred during a median follow-up of 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that PSFPC might be a safe and effective procedure that allows the stabilization of the fracture and the prevention of pathological fractures with significant pain relief and good recovery of walking ability, although further studies are required to confirm this preliminary experience.

Expanding role of percutaneous ablative and consolidative treatments for musculoskeletal tumours

Interventional approaches to musculoskeletal tumours have significantly changed over the last several years, and new treatments continue to be developed. All ablative modalities are currently applied to the treatment of bone tumours, including radiofrequency, cryo-, microwave, and laser ablation devices. Indications for ablation of bone and soft-tissue tumours have expanded beyond palliation of painful bone metastases and eradication of osteoid osteomas to the local control of oligometastatic disease from a number of primary tumours and ablation of desmoid tumours. In addition, tools for consolidation of bone tumours at risk of pathological fracture have also expanded. With these developments, ablation has become the primary treatment for osteoid osteomas and, at some institutions, desmoid tumours. It may be the primary or secondary treatment for palliation of painful bone tumours, frequently used in patients with pain refractory to or recurrent after radiation therapy. It is used as a treatment for limited metastatic disease or for metastases that grow disproportionately in patients with multifocal metastases, either in combination with systemic therapy or to reserve systemic therapy and its toxicity for more widespread disease progression. Moreover, percutaneous methods to consolidate bone at risk of fracture have become more commonplace, aided by techniques using materials beyond typical bone cement.

[Image-guided bone consolidation in oncology: Cementoplasty and percutaneous screw fixation]

Bone metastases are a common finding in oncology. They often induce pain but also fractures which impair quality of life, especially when involving weight-bearing bones. Percutaneous image-guided consolidation techniques play a major role for the management of bone metastases. Cementoplasty aims to stabilize bone and control pain by injecting acrylic cement into a weakened bone. This minimally invasive technique has proven its efficacy for bones submitted to compression forces: vertebra, acetabular roof, and condyles. However, long bone diaphysis should be treated with caution due to lower resistance of the cement subject to torsional forces. The recent improvements of navigation systems allow percutaneous image-guided screw fixation without requiring open surgery. This fast-track procedure avoids postponing introduction of systemic therapies. If needed, cementoplasty can be combined with screw insertion to ensure better anchoring in major osteolysis. Interventional radiology bone consolidation techniques increase the therapeutic field in oncology. A multidisciplinary approach remains mandatory to select the best indications.

Reinforced cementoplasty using dedicated spindles in the management of unstable malignant lesions of the cervicotrochanteric region

OBJECTIVES

In long bones, cementoplasty alone does not provide sufficient stability, which may cause secondary fractures. This study reviewed the safety and efficacy of reinforced cementoplasty (RC) (percutaneous internal fixation using dedicated spindles combined with cementoplasty) for unstable malignant lesions of the cervicotrochanteric region (CTR) of the proximal femur.

METHODS

Eighteen consecutive patients (nine women [50%] and nine men [50%]; mean age 55.1 ± 16.2 years; range 22-85) underwent RC for 19 unstable lesions of the CTR (16/19 [84.2%] bone metastases, 3/19 [15.8%] multiple myeloma lesions). All the patients were considered unsuitable for surgery. Clinical outcome was judged with a mean follow-up of 8.8 ± 7.2 months (range 1-27). The primary endpoints were occurrence of secondary fractures during the follow-up period and local pain relief measured by a visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

No secondary fracture occurred. Mean VAS improved from 5.9 ± 3.1 (range 0-10) to 2.3 ± 2.4 (range 0-7) at 1 month (p = 0.001) to 1.6 ± 1.7 (range 0-5) at final follow-up (p = 0.0002). One symptomatic cement pulmonary embolism was recorded.

CONCLUSION

RC is an original minimally invasive technique providing pain relief and effective bone stability for unstable malignant lesions of the cervicotrochanteric region in patients unsuitable for open surgery.

KEY POINTS

• Reinforced cementoplasty (RC) combines intralesional spindling with cementoplasty. • RC provides effective bone stability and pain relief. • RC is a suitable minimally invasive option for patients in poor general condition.

Percutaneous low-pressure bone stenting to control cement deposition in extensive lytic lesions

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate low-pressure bone stenting combined with cementoplasty in extensive lytic lesions.

METHODS

A single-centre study involving four consecutive patients (four women) with extensive lytic tumours was performed. The average age was 65 years. Surgical treatment was not indicated or not wished for by the patients. Institutional review board approval and informed consent were obtained. Percutaneous consolidation was performed by an interventional radiologist under fluoroscopy guidance. Follow-up was assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

Under general (n = 2) or local (n = 2) anaesthesia, five 11-gauge bone biopsy needles were advanced in four lesions. Five auto-expandable uncovered stents (10-14 mm diameter and 40-60 mm long) were inserted. In all cases, bone cement was successfully placed into the tumours. The volume of cement that was injected through the cannulas into the stents was 5-10 mL. Using VAS, pain decreased from more than 9/10 preoperatively to less than 2/10 after the procedure for all patients (p < 0.05). No complications occurred during the follow-up (8-19 months).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that cementoplasty combined with low-pressure bone stenting could allow effective bone stabilization resulting in pain relief.

KEY POINTS

• Low-pressure bone stenting is possible. • This technique improves cement injection control. • The procedure allows effective bone stabilization resulting in pain relief.

Percutaneous osteosynthesis and cementoplasty for stabilization of malignant pathologic fractures of the proximal femur

PURPOSE

To retrospectively evaluate the outcome of patients who underwent radiological percutaneous osteosynthesis and cementoplasty (RPOC) for stabilization of malignant pathological fracture of the proximal femur.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The clinical files of 12 patients who underwent RPOC for stabilization of malignant pathological fracture of the proximal femur were reviewed. There were 9 men and 3 women with a mean age of 56 years±13 (SD) (range: 35-82 years). All patients had metastases of proximal femur and a high fracture risk (Mirels score≥8) and were not eligible for surgical stabilization. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of a fracture after RPOC. Secondary endpoints were the procedure time, early complications of RPOC, pain reduction as assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) and duration of hospital stay.

RESULTS

No patients treated with RPOC had a fracture during a mean follow-up time of 382 days±274 (SD) (range: 11-815 days). RPOC was performed under general (n=10) or locoregional (n=2) anesthesia. The average duration of the procedure was 95min±17 (SD) (range: 73-121min). The technical success rate was 100%. All patients were able to walk on the day following RPOC. The average duration of hospital stay was 4days ±3 (SD) (range: 2-10 days). No major complication occurred. One patient complained of hypoesthesia in the lateral thigh. For symptomatic patients (n=7), VAS score decreased from 6.8±1.2 (SD) (range: 5-9) before treatment, to 2.3±1.1 (SD) (range: 1-4) one month later.

CONCLUSION

Preventive RPOC for pathological fracture of the proximal femur is a reliable alternative for cancer patients who are not candidates for surgical stabilization. Studies involving more patients are needed to confirm our preliminary experience.

Percutaneous Acetabuloplasty for Metastatic Lesions to the Pelvis

Metastatic lesions of the acetabulum can be painful and debilitating. First-line treatment is multimodal and consists of disease-specific chemotherapy, osteoclastic inhibitors, analgesics, and radiation therapy. When these therapies fail, surgical intervention usually is indicated and varies from regional defect stabilization to large periacetabular reconstructions that are demanding procedures with high rates of complications. Percutaneous cement augmentation (acetabuloplasty) of lesions in selected patients has been explored as a less invasive method of lesional control. This retrospective review included 11 patients with painful periacetabular lesions who underwent percutaneous acetabuloplasty using fluoroscopic guidance from 2007 to 2012, in addition to standard treatment with either radiation or chemotherapy, or a combination of both radiation and chemotherapy. Primary tumors included 4 multiple myeloma, 4 renal cell, and 3 breast malignancies. Mean procedure length was 58.4 minutes, and mean hospital stay was 1.4 days (range, 1-2 days). Mean blood loss was 33.4 mL, and there were no complications due to infection or cementation. Mean follow-up was 26.4 months (range, 3-36 months), with 2 patients dying from complications of underlying disease. All of the patients experienced pain relief following the procedure, with mean visual analog scale scores improving from 7.7 to 2.1 (P=.002). Postoperative Musculoskeletal Tumor Society and Oxford hip scores were obtained for 7 of 11 patients and demonstrated improvement. One patient underwent conversion to an acetabular reconstruction due to disease progression. This report demonstrates the effective use of a minimally invasive procedure to provide acute stability, pain relief, and good functional outcomes in patients with periacetabular metastatic lesions without pathologic fracture. [Orthopedics. 2017; 40(1):e170-e175.].

Interventional MSK procedures: the hip

Percutaneous musculoskeletal procedures are widely accepted as low invasive, highly effective, efficient and safe methods in a vast amount of hip pathologies either in diagnostic or in therapeutic management. Hip intra-articular injections are used for the symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis. Peritendinous or intrabursal corticosteroid injections can be used for the symptomatic treatment of greater trochanteric pain syndrome and anterior iliopsoas impingement. In past decades, the role of interventional radiology has rapidly increased in metastatic disease, thanks to the development of many ablative techniques. Image-guided percutaneous ablation of skeletal metastases provides a minimally invasive treatment option that appears to be a safe and effective palliative treatment for localized painful lytic lesion. Methods of tumour destruction based on temperature, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryotherapy, are performed for the management of musculoskeletal metastases. MR-guided focused ultrasound surgery provides a non-invasive alternative to these ablative methods. Cementoplasty is now widely used for pain management and consolidation of acetabular metastases and can be combined with RFA. RFA is also used to treat benign tumours, namely osteoid osteomas. New interventional procedures such as percutaneous screw fixation are also proposed to treat non-displaced or minimally displaced acetabular roof fractures.

Percutaneous Augmented Peripheral Osteoplasty in Long Bones of Oncologic Patients for Pain Reduction and Prevention of Impeding Pathologic Fracture: The Rebar Concept

PURPOSE

To evaluate clinical efficacy/safety of augmented peripheral osteoplasty in oncologic patients with long-term follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Percutaneous augmented peripheral osteoplasty was performed in 12 patients suffering from symptomatic lesions of long bones. Under extensive local sterility measures, anesthesiology care, and fluoroscopic guidance, direct access to lesion was obtained and coaxially a metallic mesh consisting of 25-50 medical grade stainless steel micro-needles (22 G, 2-6 cm length) was inserted. PMMA for vertebroplasty was finally injected under fluoroscopic control. CT assessed implant position 24-h post-treatment.

RESULTS

Clinical evaluation included immediate and delayed follow-up studies of patient's general condition, NVS pain score, and neurological status. Imaging assessed implant's long-term stability. Mean follow-up was 16.17 ± 10.93 months (range 2-36 months). Comparing patients' scores prior (8.33 ± 1.67 NVS units) and post (1.42 ± 1.62 NVS units) augmented peripheral osteoplasty, there was a mean decrease of 6.92 ± 1.51 NVS units. Overall mobility improved in 12/12 patients. No complication was observed.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous augmented peripheral osteoplasty (rebar concept) for symptomatic malignant lesions in long bones seems to be a possible new technique for bone stabilization. This combination seems to provide necessary stability against shearing forces applied in long bones during weight bearing.

Comparison of Percutaneous Cementoplasty with and Without Interventional Internal Fixation for Impending Malignant Pathological Fracture of the Proximal Femur

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of percutaneous cementoplasty (PCP) with and without interventional internal fixation (IIF) on malignant impending pathological fracture of proximal femur.

METHODS

A total of 40 patients with malignant impending pathological fracture of proximal femur were selected for PCP and IIF (n = 19, group A) or PCP alone (n = 21, group B) in this non-randomized prospective study. Bone puncture needles were inserted into the proximal femur, followed by sequential installation of the modified trocar inner needles through the puncture needle sheath. Then, 15-45 ml cement was injected into the femur lesion.

RESULTS

The overall excellent and good pain relief rate during follow-ups were significantly higher in group A than that in group B (89 vs. 57 %, P = 0.034). The average change of VAS, ODI, KPS, and EFES in group A were significantly higher than those in group B at 1-, 3-, 6-month, 1-year (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, The stability of the treated femur was significantly higher in group A than that in group B (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

PCP and IIF were not only a safe and effective procedure, but resulted in greater pain relief, bone consolidation, and also reduced the risk of fracture than the currently recommended approach of PCP done on malignant proximal femoral tumor.