Complications of percutaneous vertebroplasty: An analysis of 1100 procedures performed in 616 patients

Why some Patients Benefit from Participating in a Sham Surgery Trial

OBJECTIVE

We analyze the ethics of sham surgical trials from a utilitarian perspective and explore whether patients can benefit from participating in these trials.

BACKGROUND

Sham-controlled randomized trials are an essential tool to evaluate the risks and benefits of some surgical procedures. However, sham trials are controversial because they expose patients to the harms of a sham procedure without the possibility of benefit. We argue that ethical analyses of sham trials have focused only on the harms of sham surgery and neglected to account for the harms of the procedure being studied.

METHODS

We develop a theoretical model to estimate the harms and benefits experienced by patients who enter a sham surgery trial, taking into account the harms and benefits of the sham and intervention.

RESULTS

When the procedure in question is found to be ineffective, sham trials typically result in a net benefit to participants because some participants are only exposed to the harms of the sham procedure, which are much lower than the harms of the full procedure. When the procedure is found to be beneficial, the primary harm to patients who underwent the sham is not due to the sham itself but because they suffer a delay in receiving an effective intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients often benefit from participating in sham surgery trials because the harms of the sham procedure are lower than the harms of the full procedure, which may turn out to be ineffective. Our results call for re-thinking the ethics of sham surgery trials.

Efficacy and Complication Rates of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty in the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures: A Retrospective Analysis of 280 Patients

Background: Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and kyphoplasty (PKP) are established methods in the treatment of vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). In our manuscript, the target was to evaluate the efficacy of PVPs/PKPs and to determine the implications of potential periprocedural complications. Methods: 280 patients, specifically 194 women (69.3%) and 86 men (30.7%), were enrolled. We used the AO spine fractures classification and the Yeom classification to determine the subtype of cement leakage. Only single-level VCFs of the thoracic or lumbar spine were included. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was assessed preoperatively and regularly after the surgery. Vertebral compression ratio (VBCR) was used to determine postoperative vertebral body collapse. Results: We recorded 54 cases (19.3%) of cement leakage. There was a significant decrease in mean VAS scores (6.82-0.76 in PVPs, 7.15-0.81 in PKPs). The decrease in VBCR was greater in the VP group (4.39%; 84.21-79.82) compared to the KP group (1.95%; 74.36-72.41). Conclusions: No significant difference in the risk of cement leakage when comparing KPs and VPs was found. VPs and KPs provide rapid and significant pain relief in patients with VCFs. Clinically relevant complications of VPs and KPs are rare. Kyphoplasties prevent further vertebral body collapse more effectively compared to vertebroplasties.

Arterial embolization during percutaneous vertebroplasty resulting in bilateral renal infarcts and ischemic colitis

This case report documents an arterial embolic event that occurred during vertebroplasty for a pathological compression fracture of T12 in a 54-year-old female with known metastatic breast carcinoma. A CT angiogram performed after the procedure demonstrated cement migration into the aorta, both kidneys, and the inferior mesenteric artery and its branches, with ischemic colitis involving the descending colon and sigmoid colon. A CT scan 4 months post-procedure demonstrated resolution of the colitis. Neovascularity and cortical destruction in malignant bone lesions are thought to contribute to arterial cement leak.

Comparison of clinical effects of percutaneous vertebroplasty with two different puncture approaches on the treatment of thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures with narrow pedicles: a retrospective controlled study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) with conventional transpedicle approach (CTA) or basal transverse process-pedicle approach (BTPA) on the treatment of thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (TL-OVCFs) with narrow pedicles.

METHODS

A retrospective study of TL-OVCFs with narrow pedicles was performed, including 78 cases of CTA and 84 cases of BTPA. The surgical outcomes, radiographic parameters [the width and height of the pedicle (PW, PH), the inclination angle of puncture (PIA)] and clinical indicators [visual analog scale (VAS) score, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI)] of two groups were compared.

RESULTS

In terms of surgical outcomes of them, there was no difference in operation time (P > 0.05), while the volume of bone cement, the incidence of bone cement leakage and rate of good bone cement distribution were significantly worse in the CTA group (4.4 ± 0.6 ml vs. 5.5 ± 0.5 ml, 37.2% vs. 20.2%, 52.6% vs. 79.8%, P < 0.05). As for radiographic parameters and clinical indicators of them, the differences were not observed in the PH, PW, preoperative VAS score and ODI (P > 0.05), whereas the PIA, VAS score and ODI at 1 day postoperatively were significantly better in the BTPA group (17.3 ± 2.1° vs. 29.6 ± 2.8°, 2.7 ± 0.7 vs. 2.1 ± 0.8, 32.8 ± 4.6 vs. 26.7 ± 4.0, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The study provided solid evidence that PVP with BTPA had more advantages in the treatment of TL-OVCFs with narrow pedicles, which can better relieve postoperative pain.

Case report: Shock after percutaneous vertebroplasty of the 5th thoracic vertebra

Background

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is a common treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF). Perioperative bleeding is usually rare, so there are few reports of shock. However, we developed shock after treating a case of OVCF of the 5th thoracic vertebra with PVP.

Case presentation

An 80 years old female patient received PVP due to OVCF of the 5th thoracic vertebra. The operation was successfully completed and the patient returned to the ward safely after the operation. At 90 min after operation, she developed shock, which was induced by subcutaneous hemorrhage up to 1500 ml at the puncture site. Before using vascular embolization, transfusion and blood transfusion were used to maintain blood pressure, and local ice bag compression was used to reduce swelling and stop bleeding, which achieved successful hemostasis. She recovered and discharged after 15 days, with the hematoma having absorbed. There was no recurrence during the 17-month follow-up.

Conclusion

Although PVP is considered to be a safe and effective method to treat OVCF, the possible hemorrhagic shock still needs to arouse the vigilance of surgeons.

Interventional Pain Procedures: A Narrative Review Focusing On Safety and Complications. PART 2 Interventional Procedures For Back Pain

In patients where conservative approaches have failed to relieve from chronic pain, interventional procedures may be an option in well selected patients. In recent years there has been an increase in the use and development of invasive procedures. Concomitantly, there has also been an increase in the complications associated with these procedures. Taken this into consideration, it is important for healthcare providers to take a cautious and vigilant approach, with a focus on patient safety, in order to minimize the risk of adverse events and ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. This may include careful selection of patients for procedures, use of proper techniques and equipment, and close monitoring and follow-up after the procedure. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the primary complications associated with commonly performed image-guided (fluoroscopy or ultrasound-guided) interventional procedures and provide strategies to reduce the risk of these complications. We conclude that although complications from interventional pain procedures can be mitigated to a certain degree, they cannot be eliminated altogether. In order to avoid adverse events, patient safety should be given considerable attention and physicians should be constantly aware of the possibility of developing complications.

Acute abdomen after vertebroplasty-A rare complication

Introduction

In recent years, as the concept of minimally invasive treatment has been accepted by the majority of patients, the application of percutaneous vertebroplasty in osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures has gradually increased, and research on the adverse complications of bone cement leakage has gradually deepened.

Case

Here, we report a rare case of acute pancreatitis after vertebroplasty. The patient had no previous history of pancreatitis and presented with obvious abdominal pain after vertebroplasty. Abdominal CT examination revealed that the leaking bone cement penetrated the anterior wall of the L1 vertebral body into the diaphragm, and the heat released by the polymerization reaction caused inflammation and damage to the adjacent pancreas, resulting in poor blood flow to the pancreatic tissue and leading to acute pancreatitis. Early postoperative symptomatic treatment was given to the patient, and the corresponding symptoms were gradually relieved. During postoperative follow-up, the leaking cement did not degrade, but the patient had no symptoms.

Conclusion

Lesions of adjacent organs caused by bone cement leakage are rare, and clinicians often ignore the association between such complications and vertebroplasty. This case report will provide guidance and a reference for clinicians.

The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) Evidence-Based Clinical Guideline of Interventional Treatments for Low Back Pain

Introduction

Painful lumbar spinal disorders represent a leading cause of disability in the US and worldwide. Interventional treatments for lumbar disorders are an effective treatment for the pain and disability from low back pain. Although many established and emerging interventional procedures are currently available, there exists a need for a defined guideline for their appropriateness, effectiveness, and safety.

Objective

The ASPN Back Guideline was developed to provide clinicians the most comprehensive review of interventional treatments for lower back disorders. Clinicians should utilize the ASPN Back Guideline to evaluate the quality of the literature, safety, and efficacy of interventional treatments for lower back disorders.

Methods

The American Society of Pain and Neuroscience (ASPN) identified an educational need for a comprehensive clinical guideline to provide evidence-based recommendations. Experts from the fields of Anesthesiology, Physiatry, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Radiology, and Pain Psychology developed the ASPN Back Guideline. The world literature in English was searched using Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, BioMed Central, Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, Current Contents Connect, Scopus, and meeting abstracts to identify and compile the evidence (per section) for back-related pain. Search words were selected based upon the section represented. Identified peer-reviewed literature was critiqued using United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) criteria and consensus points are presented.

Results

After a comprehensive review and analysis of the available evidence, the ASPN Back Guideline group was able to rate the literature and provide therapy grades to each of the most commonly available interventional treatments for low back pain.

Conclusion

The ASPN Back Guideline represents the first comprehensive analysis and grading of the existing and emerging interventional treatments available for low back pain. This will be a living document which will be periodically updated to the current standard of care based on the available evidence within peer-reviewed literature.

Why does patients’ discharge delay after vertebral augmentation? A factor analysis of 1,442 patients

Objective

Vertebral augmentation techniques are widely used to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). Superior analgesic effects and shortened bed rest time means patients recover quickly, but prolonged unscheduled hospitalization can increase medical expenses and the risk of bed rest complications. The aim of this study was to investigate the reasons for prolonged hospitalization after vertebral augmentation surgery and to determine the relative risk factors.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study was conducted to enroll patients with OVCFs and accepted vertebral augmentation surgery from January 2017 to December 2017. Clinical information was collected from the Hospital Information System (HIS). The criterion of delayed discharge was postoperative hospitalization more than 3 days. Telephone interviews and medical history evaluations were conducted to confirm the exact reason for retention. The risk factors were analyzed by multiple logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 1,442 patients were included, and 191 (13.2%) stayed in the hospital for more than 3 days postoperatively. The reasons for delayed discharge were psychological factors (37.2%), residual pain (32.5%), cardiopulmonary complications (15.7%), nonspecific symptoms (8.4%), incision abnormalities (2.6%), thrombosis (2.1%), and postanesthesia reactions (1.6%). The multiple logistic model was significant; age (OR 1.028; 95% CI 1.009–1.046), preoperative stay (OR 1.192; 95% CI 1.095–1.298), operation type (OR 1.494; 95% CI 1.019–2.189), and the number of surgical segments (OR 2.238; 95% CI 1.512–3.312) showed statistical significance. In contrast, gender (P > 0.1) and chronic comorbidities (P > 0.1) were not predictors in this model.

Conclusion

Overall, 13.2% of OVCF patients who underwent vertebral augmentation surgery were not discharged within 3 days postoperatively, and several predictors were found. Preoperative communication and comprehensive evaluations are calling for more attention; physicians should adopt an appropriate medical process to enhance rehabilitation in geriatric orthopedics.

An observational study of vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty for osteoporotic spinal fractures: utilisation and outcomes in England using an administrative dataset

We reviewed outcomes for vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty for the surgical treatment of osteoporotic spinal fracture. Our study of 5792 vertebroplasty and 3136 balloon kyphoplasty procedures conducted in England over a 7-year period found no evidence that the patient outcomes studied were poorer for vertebroplasty than for balloon kyphoplasty.

PURPOSE

To investigate use, safety and functional outcomes of vertebroplasty (VP) and balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) techniques for osteoporotic spinal fracture for patients operated on within the National Health Service in England.

METHODS

This was an observational analysis of administrative data. Data were extracted from the Hospital Episodes Statistics database for the period 1^st April 2011 to 31^st March 2018 for all VP and BKP procedures. Patients aged < 19 years, with metastatic carcinoma and undergoing other decompression procedures, were excluded. The primary outcome was repeat spinal surgery within 1 year. Secondary outcomes were 30-day emergency readmission, death within 1 year, extended hospital stay, post-procedural pain within 30 days and post-procedural haemorrhage or infection within 30 days. Multilevel, multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for covariates.

RESULTS

Data were available for 5792 VP and 3136 BKP patients operated on at 96 hospital trusts. In the 63 trusts that conducted more than 20 procedures during the study period, the proportion of procedures conducted as BKP varied from 0 to 100%. There was no difference in any of the outcomes between VP and BKP patients or between trusts performing ≥ 70% and ≤ 30% of procedures as BKP.

CONCLUSIONS

With regard to the outcomes studied, there is no evidence that VP is associated with poorer outcomes than BKP.

The Acute VertEbRal AugmentaTion (AVERT) study: protocol for a randomised controlled, feasibility trial of spinal medial branch nerve block in hospitalised older patients with vertebral fragility fractures

INTRODUCTION

Vertebral fragility fractures (VFFs) are the most common type of osteoporotic fracture found in older people, resulting in increasing morbidity and excess mortality. These fractures can cause significant pain, requiring admission to hospital. Vertebroplasty (VP) is effective in reducing pain and allowing early mobilisation in hospitalised patients. However, it may be associated with complications such as cement leakage, infection, bleeding at the injection site and fracture of adjacent vertebrae. It is also costly and not readily accessible in many UK hospitals.A recent retrospective study reported that spinal medial branch nerve block (MBNB), typically used to treat facet arthropathy, had similar efficacy in terms of pain relief compared with VP for the treatment of painful VFF. However, to date, no study has prospectively compared MBNB to VP. We therefore propose a prospective feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) to compare the role of MBNB to VP, in hospitalised older patients.

METHOD

A parallel, two-arm RCT with participants allocated on a 1:1 ratio to either standard care-VP or MBNB in hospitalised patients aged over 70 with acute osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Follow-up will be at weeks 1, 4 and 8 post intervention. The primary objective is to determine the feasibility and design of a future trial, including specific outcomes of recruitment, adherence to randomisation and safety. Embedded within the trial will be a health economic evaluation to understand resource utilisation and implications of the intervention and a qualitative study of the experiences and insights of trial participants and clinicians. Secondary outcomes will include pain scores, analgesia requirements, resource use and quality of life data.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was granted by the Yorkshire & the Humber Research Ethics Committee (reference 21/YH/0065). AVERT (Acute VertEbRal AugmentaTion) has received approval by the Health Research Authority (reference IRAS 293210) and is sponsored by Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (reference 21HC001). Recruitment is ongoing. Results will be presented at relevant conferences and submitted to appropriate journals for publication on completion.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN18334053.

The combination of radiofrequency ablation and vertebroplasty shows advantages over single vertebroplasty in treating vertebral neoplastic lesions

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the safety and efficacy of the combination of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and vertebroplasty versus single vertebroplasty in treating spinal metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of 35 patients with vertebral neoplastic lesions who received RFA combined with vertebroplasty (group A, 15 patients with 17 lesions) or single vertebroplasty (group B, 20 patients with 24 lesions) from March 2016 to June 2019 were retrospectively compared. The data of patients' Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores prior to the treatments, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after the treatments, injected cement volume, ratios of cement leakage were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

All procedures were successfully done without severe complications. The VAS scores in group A were decreased more rapidly 1 week after the treatments and remained more stable at 6 months than that in group B (P < 0.05). The cement injected in group A (5.95 ± 1.45 mL, range 4-9.5 mL) was significantly more than that in group B (4.09 ± 0.55 mL, range 3.1-5.5 mL) (P < 0.05). The ratio of vascular cement leakage in group A was significantly lower than that in group B (P < 0.05), while no statistical difference was found in the non-vascular cement leakage (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that the combination of RFA and vertebroplasty has a better analgesic effect with more injected cement and lower rates of venous cement leakage than single vertebroplasty.

Comparison of the effectiveness and safety of unilateral and bilateral percutaneous vertebroplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of lateral and bilateral percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CMB, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases between January 2014 and December 2020. The clinical efficacy of the 2 approaches was evaluated by comparing perioperative outcomes (operation time, X-ray exposure time, volume of injected cement), clinical outcomes (degree of vertebral height restoration, improvement of Cobb angle, visual analogue scale score, and Oswestry Disability Index scores), and operation-related complications (rate of cement leakage, adjacent vertebral fracture rate, and nerve root stimulation). Data were analyzed using RevMan 5.3.3 and Stata 15.1.

RESULTS

A total of 237 related articles were retrieved, and 17 randomized controlled trials were included. Meta-analysis results showed that compared to bilateral PVP, unilateral PVP led to decreased operation times (mean difference [MD] = -15.24, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [-17.77, -12.70], P < .05), decreased X-ray exposure time (MD-8.94, 95% CI[-12.08,-5.80]; P < .01), decreased volumes of injected cement (MD-1.57, 95% CI[-2.00,-1.14]; P < .05), and lower incidence of cement leakage (risk ratio [RR] = 0.6,95% CL[0.48,0.77], P < .01). Patients that underwent unilateral PVP experienced more effective pain relief at the last follow-up (MD-0.09, 95% CI [-0.15,-0.03];P=.006 < .05) and had a low degree of vertebral height restoration (MD-0.38, 95% CL [-0.71, -0.06]; P=.02 < .05). However, no differences in adjacent vertebral fractures (RR 1.19, 95% CI [0.78,1.82]; P = .41 > .01), nerve root stimulation (RR 1.98, 95% CI [0.22, 17.90]; P = .54 > .01), improvement of Cobb angle (MD = -0.18, 95% CI [-0.49, 0.13], P = .26 > .01), and improvement of ODI score (MD = 0.22, 95% CI[-0.37, 0.80], P > .05) were found between the 2 approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

Although both unilateral and bilateral PVP can improve the quality of life of this patient population by managing pain effectively, unilateral PVP offers more benefits, including shorter operation time and less fluoroscopy, and should be recommended in clinical practice for OVCFs.

Precise puncture combined with simplified percutaneous vertebroplasty to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: a comparative analysis with conventional percutaneous vertebroplasty

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility and clinical efficacy of precise puncture combined with simplified percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF).

METHODS

A total of 82 patients with single-segment osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF) treated with PVP from Dec. 2016 to Nov. 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Among the patients, 45 cases in group A accepted precise puncture combined with simplified PVP, and 37 cases in group B underwent conventional PVP. The operative time, the number of intraoperative fluoroscopy, vertebral height restoration, postoperative bone cement distribution and bone cement leakage were observed and compared. The pain relief and improvement of quality of life (QOL) were assessed by visual analog score (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI).

RESULTS

There were no differences in injected cement volume and hospital stays in group A versus group B. The operative time, the number of intraoperative fluoroscopy and material cost were lower in group A compared with group B (P<0.05). After surgery, the VAS scores, ODI, the average vertebral height and Cobb angle were obviously improved and they were significantly different from those before operation (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference for VAS scores, ODI, average vertebral height and Cobb angle between groups at different time points. The proportion of patients with bone cement dispersion exceeding the midline of vertebra in group A was significantly higher than that in group B (82.2% vs. 62.1%, P<0.05), whereas the bone cement leakage rate in group A was lower than that in group B (8.9% vs. 27.0%, P<0.05). Patients were followed-up for 12-23 months (mean 17.6 months) after surgery. There were 3 cases (6.6%) of adjacent vertebral fractures in group A and 2 cases (5.4%) in group B.

CONCLUSION

Precise puncture can improve the accuracy of puncture needle through pedicle to vertebral body. It is conducive to obtaining a better diffusion of bone cement across the midline with a lower bone cement leakage rate. Simplified PVP can not only reduce the surgery procedures, shorten the operative time, reduce the X-ray frequency, but also save material cost.

Comparison of Cement Leakage Rate and Severity After Percutaneous Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures Using Front-Opening Versus Side-Opening Cannulas

The authors assessed the occurrence and severity of cement leakage (CL) following percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) performed using front-opening cannulas (FOCs) vs side-opening cannulas (SOCs). This retrospective cohort study included 811 patients with single-level OVCFs who underwent PVP between March 2016 and September 2018. The 264 patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two groups according to whether the procedure was performed using a FOC (n=128) or a SOC (n=136). Visual analog scale score, Oswestry Disability Index, local kyphotic angle, vertebral height, amount of bone cement injected, and rate of CL were compared between the groups. Types of CL were classified according to postoperative computed tomography. The CL types were further classified according to severity (mild and severe). Visual analog scale score, Oswestry Disability Index, local kyphotic angle, and vertebral height were all significantly improved after surgery. The total incidence of CL was significantly higher for FOCs than for SOCs (P=.001). Similarly, the occurrence of the CL subtypes was significantly higher for FOCs than for SOCs (B type, P=.033; C type, P=.01; and S type, P=.015). Analysis of CL type severity revealed that the rates of severe D type (intradiskal leakage category of the C type) and severe S type were significantly lower for SOCs than for FOCs (P=.001), while the incidence of severe B type leaks was not significantly different between the groups (P=.443). Percutaneous vertebroplasty performed using SOCs decreases the incidence and severity of D type and S type CL compared with FOCs. Secondary classification of CL could help physicians better understand the severity of leakage and select a more appropriate surgical approach to reduce CL. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(3):134-140.].

A novel "three-dimensional-printed individual guide template-assisted percutaneous vertebroplasty" for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture: a prospective, controlled study

BACKGROUND

Conventional percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) are mainly guided by C-arm fluoroscopy, and it usually leads to excessive X-ray radiation exposure to patients, surgeons, and anesthetists. Moreover, multi-time fluoroscope may prolong the operation time. 3D-printed template could help minimize fluoroscopy shot times and fluoroscopy dosage during operation, and shorten operation time. We perform this study to compare the efficacy and accuracy of PVP assisted by "three-dimensional printed individual guide template" versus conventional PVP.

METHOD

Patients who suffered acute painful single segment osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture(OVCF) needed operative treatment were randomly assigned into three-dimensional printing individual guide template-assisted percutaneous vertebroplasty group (group A) or conventional PVP guided by C-arm fluoroscopy group (group B) at a 1:1 ratio. Fluoroscopy times for puncture points (FTPP), total radiation dosages (TRD), total fluoroscopy time (TFT), and total operation time (TOT) were recorded as the main evaluation factors to evaluate the two operation procedures.

RESULTS

A total of 36 acute painful single segment OVCF patients were successfully operated on, and each group has 18 patients. None of the patients presented symptomatic complications. The surgical success rate in group A was 94.4%(17/18), one patient in the group A was failed and then operated by conventional procedure. FTPP (1.8 ± 0.8 in group A vs 5.2 ± 1.9 in group B, P < 0.05), TRD (4.9 ± 0.9 mGy vs 7.9 ± 1.6 mGy, P < 0.05), TFT (16.7 ± 2.9 vs 26.6 ± 5.3, P < 0.05), and total operation time (19.4 ± 2.4 min vs 27.8 ± 4.0 min, P < 0.05) were presented statistically difference in the two groups. The incidence of cement leakage occurred in group A (3/18, 16.7%) was less than that occurred in group B (7/18, 38.9%) (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the conventional PVP, "three-dimensional-printed individual guide template-assisted PVP" could minimize fluoroscopy shot times during operation and fluoroscopy dosage, shorten operation time, and is a more precise and feasible operation method.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The present study was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) ( http://www.chictr.org.cn ), and its registration no. is ChiCTR1900024283.

The outcome of expandable titanium mesh implants for the treatment of multi-level vertebral compression fractures caused by multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND

Painful vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) in myeloma patients severely reduce quality of life. Currently, the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) and National Institute of Clinical Excellence NICE advocate the use of either balloon kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty in the management of these fractures.

METHODS

All patients with VCFs and myeloma who adhered to the IMWG indications for vertebral augmentation were treated with the Osseofix^® implant. Visual analogue scores (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were taken preoperatively and at least one year following surgery. Cobb angle and implant migration were measured on lateral standing radiographs.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (average age 62, SD = 11.6) consisting of 82 levels (range 3-8) were stabilised with no perioperative complications or revisions at one year. There was an improvement in patient-reported outcomes with the median preoperative VAS of 8.6 (IQR 7.3-10.0) reducing to 3 (IQR 1.0-4.0) after one year (P < 0.001) whilst an average improvement of 31.4 (SD = 19.6) points in the ODI scores was reported (P < 0.001). There was no significant collapse or implant failure at one year with a greater improvement in the VAS/ODI score, when more implants were used (P = 0.049 and 0.008, respectively). The average length of stay was 2.2 days (SD = 1.7).

CONCLUSION

The use of the Osseofix^® implant in VCFs caused by multiple myeloma has shown a statistically significant improvement in both pain and outcome scores. There were no complications or significant radiological deterioration of spinal alignment over the course of a year.

Cement Augmentation of Vertebral Compression Fractures May Be Safely Considered in the Very Elderly

Objective

The objective of the current study was to perform a retrospective review of a national database to assess the safety of cement augmentation for vertebral compression fractures in geriatric populations in varying age categories.

Methods

The 2005–2016 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program databases were queried to identify patients undergoing kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty in the following age categories: 60–69, 70–79, 80–89, and 90+ years old. Demographic variables, comorbidity status, procedure type, provider specialty, inpatient/outpatient status, number of procedure levels, and periprocedure complications were compared between age categories using chi-square analysis. Multivariate logistic regressions controlling for patient and procedural variables were then performed to assess the relative periprocedure risks of adverse outcomes of patients in the different age categories relative to those who were 60–69 years old.

Results

For the 60–69, 70–79, 80–89, and 90+ years old cohorts, 486, 822, 937, and 215 patients were identified, respectively. After controlling for patient and procedural variables, 30-day any adverse events, serious adverse events, reoperation, readmission, and mortality were not different for the respective age categories. Cases in the 80- to 89-year-old cohort were at increased risk of minor adverse events compared to cases in the 60- to 69-year-old cohort.

Conclusion

As the population ages, cement augmentation is being considered as a treatment for vertebral compression fractures in increasingly older patients. These results suggest that even the very elderly may be appropriately considered for these procedures (level of evidence: 3).

Selections of Bone Cement Viscosity and Volume in Percutaneous Vertebroplasty: A Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate the efficacy and complications of percutaneous vertebroplasty with different viscosities and volumes of bone cement in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs).

METHOD

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 307 patients treated for a single thoracolumbar level (T12-L2) OVCF in our hospital between January 2014 and December 2019. The patients were divided into 6 groups according to different viscosities (I: low-viscosity bone cement, II: high-viscosity bone cement) and injection volumes (A, 2-4 mL; B, 4-6 mL; C, 6-8 mL) of bone cement. Clinical and radiologic characteristics including visual analog scale, local kyphotic angle, anterior vertebral height ratio, cement leakage, and vertebral body recollapse rate were collected preoperatively, 2 days postoperation, and at the last follow-up to assess the efficacy and complications of each group.

RESULTS

Regarding efficacy, there was no significant difference between the 2 kinds of bone cement. Injecting >4 mL of cement can provide patients with good improvements of clinical indicators and a low vertebral body recollapse rate. Injecting 6-8 mL of bone cement slightly improved the radiologic indicators. However, the leakage rate of low-viscosity bone cement increased significantly when the volume exceeded 6 mL. The leakage rate of high-viscosity bone cement did not increase significantly at the volume of 6-8 mL.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, when treating single thoracolumbar level OVCFs, the recommended volume of low-viscosity bone cement is 4-6 mL while the optimal volume of high-viscosity bone cement is 6-8 mL.

Doughnut vertebroplasty for circumferential aggressive vertebral hemangiomas

BACKGROUND

To assess the feasibility, safety and efficacy of a percutaneous doughnut vertebroplasty of circumferential aggressive vertebral hemangiomas (VHs).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively collected database of patients with VHs treated with vertebroplasty between January 2009 and January 2018. Patient demographics, clinical presentations and procedural details were recorded. All patients underwent preoperative computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All vertebroplasties were performed under conscious sedation in the prone position, predominantly using biplane fluoroscopic guidance. A clinical and imaging evaluation (early CT scan and MRI) as well as a final follow-up clinical assessment was performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients with aggressive VHs who underwent circumferential vertebroplasty with cementation of the entire vertebral body and at least one posterior hemi-arch were included (six males, mean age 53 years). At 3 months follow-up, nine patients (41%) had complete, 11 (50%) had partial and two (9%) had no resolution of pain. Nine of 14 patients had a decrease in venous swelling on MRI. No complications were observed. Five patients (23%) underwent adjunctive surgery within 1 year for persistence or worsening of neurological symptoms. Clinical and radiographic improvements were maintained to final follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Doughnut vertebroplasty offers a mini-invasive, safe and effective treatment of aggressive circumferential VHs. This technique improves pain in over 90% of patients as well as a reduction in radicular and neurological symptoms associated with a tendency to regression of the compressive epidural venous component of these lesions.

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures: A diagnostic challenge in the 21ST century

Vertebral fractures are the most prevalent osteoporotic fractures and are paradoxically the most underdiagnosed. While only one-third of patients have acute pain, they can present other associated chronic complications. Vertrebal fractures are associated with the onset of new fractures, both vertebral and nonvertebral. Radiography of the dorsal-lumbar spine is a useful tool for detecting them but depends on the subjective interpretation of the physician conducting the assessment. New techniques, such as vertebral morphometry, have recently demonstrated greater efficacy in detecting v vertebral fractures and are performed concomitantly with bone densitometry. Knowing how to identify vertebral fractures is essential for the secondary prevention of new fractures and improving our patients' quality of life.

Vertebroplasty Increases the Incidence Of New Vertebral Compression Fractures Compared To Conservative Management

Background Vertebral osteoporotic fractures are a major cause of morbidity and disability among the elderly population.

This study sought to compare the incidence of new vertebral fractures in patients treated by vertebroplasty with that of those managed conservatively, while also assessing the potential risk factors contributing to the occurrence of these fractures.

Materials and Methods The details of a total of 121 eligible subjects with radiologically proven osteoporotic vertebral fractures were retrieved from our archive between January 2010 and September 2019 and divided, based on the treatment method, into percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) (n = 60) and nonsurgical treatment (n = 61). The included subjects’ clinical data, demographic profiles, and imaging findings on plain radiography, CT, and MRI scans performed at baseline and within 24 months following treatment were reviewed and documented.

Results The difference in the incidence of new fractures was statistically significant (p = 0.001), with rates of 70% (n = 32) in the vertebroplasty group and 30% (n = 14) in the conservatively treated cases reported at a median follow-up time point of approximately 4 months. The presence of liver disease (p = 0.037), a history of transplantation (p = 0.003), the use of steroids (p = 0.023), a low-bone mineral density (BMD) score (p = 0.023), and a higher number of fractures on baseline imaging (p = 0.013) were associated with a greater risk of subsequent vertebral fractures.

Conclusions The incidence of acute fractures after PVP is higher than that among patients treated conservatively. Decision-making regarding the adoption of this intervention should take into consideration the risk factors leading to a greater risk of subsequent vertebral fractures, such as a higher number of fractures at baseline imaging, low-BMD score, patient comorbidities, and steroid use.

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty and Facet Blocking for Treating Back Pain Caused by Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture

Methods

Clinical and radiological data of 204 patients were reviewed. The patients were divided into Group A (PVP alone) and Group B (PVP and FB combined therapy) according to treatments. Back pain was evaluated with Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The operation, fluoroscopic exposure time, and bone cement leakage were recorded. The χ² test, Student's t-test, and repeated measures analysis of variance were used to compare the differences between the two groups.

Results

There were 125 patients in Group A and 79 patients in Group B. Their baseline characteristics were similar (P > 0.05). The mean VAS scores of Group A and Group B were 7.03 and 7.21 at admission, 4.7 and 3.2 at 1 day after operation, 4.0 and 3.0 at 3 months, and 2.2 and 2.2 at 12 months after operation, respectively. The mean ODI scores of Group A and Group B were 30.9 and 29.8 at admission, 17.6 and 17.7 at 3 months, and 10.5 and 10.9 at 12 months after operation, respectively. The mean operation time and fluoroscopic exposure time of Group A (35.6 minutes and 7.2 seconds, respectively) was significantly shorter than that of Group B (45.7 minutes and 11.7 seconds, respectively, P < 0.01). The incidence of bone cement leakage and new fractures after operation did not have statistically significant difference between groups.

Conclusion

PVP and FB combined therapy could provide better pain relief than PVP alone in short term after operation in patients with OVCFs associated back pains.

Comparison of subtotal vertebral resection with reconstruction and percutaneous vertebroplasty for treatment of metastasis in the lumbar spine

Purpose: Tumor metastasis in the spine can cause pain and fractures, leading to deformities, and deficits in movement, sensation, and bowel/bladder function. Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and subtotal vertebral resection with reconstruction (SVR) are suitable treatments, but their relative clinical efficacy is uncertain. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to compare the management and clinical effect of SVR for lumbar metastatic tumor with PVP.Methods: Sixty-seven patients (mean age: 58.6 years) with metastases in the lumbar spine received SVR or PVP at our institution between 2010 and 2013. Thirty-three patients received SVR via a posterior approach, in which vertebrae were resected, with the anterior and lateral walls retained using polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), followed by reconstruction and pedicle screw fixation. Thirty-four patients received PVP via the vertebral pedicle. Patients were followed for 3-26 months.Results: None of the patients experienced serious complications after surgery, and all patients experienced significant amelioration of pain. Twelve patients (8 in the PVP group and 4 in the SVR group) died during the follow-up, and the survival time was significantly longer in the SVR group. Two patients in the SVR group and 7 patients in the PVP groups experienced recurrence during follow-up, but the groups had no significant difference in local recurrence. Both treatments significantly reduced scores for pain on a visual analog scale (pain-VAS) and disability (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI]), and increased performance status (Karnofsky Performance Status [KPS]). Compared with the PVP group, the SVR group had better ODI score at 1 month and 3 months after surgery and a higher KPS score at 1 month after surgery. The two groups had no significant difference in pain-VAS scores during follow-up.Conclusions: SVR is a reliable treatment for lumbar metastatic tumor and provides good survival rate and satisfying follow-up results.

[Effectiveness comparison of low-temperature bone cement perfusion before and after improvement in percutaneous vertebroplasty]

Objective

To discuss the safety and effectiveness of the improved technique by comparing the effects of low temperature bone cement infusion before and after the improvement in the percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP).

Methods

The clinical data of 170 patients (184 vertebrae) with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture who met the selection criteria between January 2016 and January 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were treated with PVP by low-temperature bone cement perfusion technology. According to the technical improvement or not, the patients were divided into two groups: the group before the technical improvement (group A, 95 cases) and the group after the technical improvement (group B, 75 cases). In group A, the patients were treated by keeping the temperature of bone cement at 0℃ and parallel puncture; in group B, the patients were treated by increasing the temperature of bone cement or reducing the time of bone cement in ice salt water and cross puncture. There was no significant difference in gender, age, disease duration, T value of bone mineral density, operative segment, and preoperative vertebral compression rate, visual analogue scale (VAS) score between the two groups ( P>0.05). CT examination was performed immediately after operation, and the leakage rate of bone cement was calculated. The amount of bone cement perfusion and the proportion of bone cement in contact with the upper and lower endplates at the same time were compared between the two groups. The vertebral compression rate was calculated and the VAS score was used to evaluate the pain before operation, at immediate after operation, and last follow-up.

Results

There was no complication such as incision infection, spinal nerve injury, or pulmonary embolism in both groups. There was no significant difference in the amount of bone cement perfusion between groups A and B ( t=0.175, P=0.861). There were 38 vertebral bodies (36.89%) in group A and 49 vertebral bodies (60.49%) in group B exposed to bone cement contacting with the upper and lower endplates at the same time, showing significant difference ( χ ²=10.132, P=0.001). Bone cement leakage occurred in 19 vertebral bodies (18.45%) in group A and 6 vertebral bodies (7.41%) in group B, also showing significant difference ( χ ²=4.706, P=0.030). The patients in group A and group B were followed up (13.3±1.2) months and (11.5±1.1) months, respectively. The vertebral compression rates of the two groups at immediate after operation were significantly lower than those before operation ( P<0.05), but the vertebral compression rate of group A at last follow-up was significantly higher than that at immediate after operation ( P<0.05), and there was no significant difference in group B between at immediate after operation and at last follow-up ( P>0.05). The VAS scores of the two groups at immediate after operation were significantly lower than those before operation ( P<0.05); but the VAS scores of group A at last follow-up were significantly higher than those at immediate after operation ( P<0.05) and there was no siginificant difference in group B ( P>0.05). There was no significant difference in VAS scores between the two groups at immediate after operation ( t=0.380, P=0.705); but at last follow-up, VAS score in group B was significantly lower than that in group A ( t=3.627, P=0.000).

Conclusion

The improved advanced low-temperature bone cement perfusion technology during PVP by increasing the viscosity of bone cement combined with cross-puncture technology, can reduce bone cement leakage, improve the distribution of bone cement in the vertebral body, and reduce the risk of vertebral collapse, and achieve better effectiveness.

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures: A diagnostic challenge in the 21st century

Vertebral fractures are the most prevalent osteoporotic fractures and are paradoxically the most underdiagnosed. While only one-third of patients have acute pain, they can present other associated chronic complications. Vertrebal fractures are associated with the onset of new fractures, both vertebral and nonvertebral. Radiography of the dorsal-lumbar spine is a useful tool for detecting them but depends on the subjective interpretation of the physician conducting the assessment. New techniques, such as vertebral morphometry, have recently demonstrated greater efficacy in detecting v vertebral fractures and are performed concomitantly with bone densitometry. Knowing how to identify vertebral fractures is essential for the secondary prevention of new fractures and improving our patients' quality of life.

Rare Episode of Cement Leakage During Vesselplasty in a Case of Vertebral Compression Fracture

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis has become an important issue owing to the increasing elderly population. It is the most common cause of vertebral compression fracture. Conservative treatment is often ineffective, whereas surgical treatment has a vital role in compression fracture. Vesselplasty is a new surgical alternative to traditional vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. It uses a polyethylene terephthalate balloon that functions as both a vertebral body expander and a bone cement container. We present a rare but catastrophic case of cement leakage during vesselplasty resulting in devastating neurologic compromise. This case highlights the need for awareness of vesselplasty safety and the importance of using a low-temperature bone cement.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 77-year-old woman presented with debilitating back pain owing to acute T6 compression fracture as detected by magnetic resonance imaging. Under biplanar fluoroscopy, vesselplasty using a polyethylene terephthalate balloon container was performed at the T6 vertebrae. During cement injection, balloon rupture and cement leakage occurred compromising the spinal canal. Emergent laminectomy and cement removal were performed. Paraplegia developed postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Though vesselplasty is claimed to be safe, cement leakage related to balloon rupture occurred in our case. Furthermore, thermal effects were difficult to observe during polymethyl methacrylate polymerization. Heat not only might cause irreversible complications but also might make the balloon rupture more easily.

Poly(methyl methacrylate) bone cement composited with mineralized collagen for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures in extremely old patients

To examine the clinical effects of a new bone cement composed of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and mineralized collagen (MC) compared with pure PMMA bone cement in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) in patients aged over 80. In all, 32 cases using pure PMMA bone cement and 31 cases using MC-modified PMMA (MC-PMMA) bone cement for OVCFs between June 2014 and March 2016 were screened as PMMA group and MC-PMMA group, respectively, with an average age of over 80. The operation duration, intraoperative blood loss, hospital stay, oswestry disability index (ODI), visual analogue scale (VAS), anterior vertebral height (AVH), intermediate vertebral height (IVH) and posterior vertebral height (PVH) of injured vertebrae, vertebral computed tomography value, re-fracture rate of adjacent vertebrae, correction rate of spinal kyphotic angle and wedge-shaped vertebra angle and surgical complications were compared between the two groups. In the early post-operative period, the VAS, ODI, AVH and IVH in MC-PMMA group were comparable to those in the traditional PMMA group. Moreover, the MC-PMMA group showed better effects compared with the PMMA group 12 months after surgery. Thus, this new bone cement has superior clinic effects in the long term.

Effectiveness of percutaneous cement injection on proximal junctional failure after posterior lumbar interbody fusion: Preliminary study

Proximal junctional failure (PJF) is the greatest challenge after posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of percutaneous cement injection (PCI) for PJF after PLIF patients requiring surgical revision.In this retrospective clinical study, we reviewed 7 patients requiring surgical revision for PJF after PLIF with 18 months follow-up. They received PCI at the collapsed vertebral body and supra-adjacent vertebra, with or without intervertebral disc intervention. The outcome measures were radiographic findings and revision surgery. Two different radiographic parameters (wedging rate (%) of the fractured vertebral body and local kyphosis angle) were used, and were performed before and immediately after PCI, and 18 month after the PCI.In our study, we showed that 5 of 7 patients who experienced PJF after PLIF did not receive any revision surgery after PCI. Immediately after cement injection, the anterior wedging rate (%) and the local kyphosis angle were significantly improved (P = .018, P = .028). The anterior wedging rates (%) and local kyphosis angle, at pre-PCI, immediate after PCI, and at final follow-up, were not significantly different between the non-revision surgery and revision surgery groups.Five of 7 patients who experienced PJF after PLIF did not receive revision surgery after PCI. Considering that general anesthesia and open surgery are high-risk procedures for geriatric patients, our results suggest that non-surgical PCI could be a viable alternative treatment option for PJF.SMC2017-01-011-001. Retrospectively registered 18 January 2017.

Local osteo-enhancement of osteoporotic vertebra with a triphasic bone implant material increases strength-a biomechanical study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to assess the biomechanical properties of intact vertebra augmented using a local osteo-enhancement procedure to inject a triphasic calcium sulfate/calcium phosphate implant material.

METHODS

Twenty-one fresh frozen human cadaver vertebra (Th11-L2) were randomized into three groups: treatment, sham, and control (n = 7 each). Treatment included vertebral body access, saline lavage to displace soft tissue and marrow elements, and injection of the implant material to fill approximately 20% of the vertebral body by volume. The sham group included all treatment steps, but without injection of the implant material. The control group consisted of untreated intact osteoporotic vertebra. Load at failure and displacement at failure for each of the three groups were measured in axial compression loading.

RESULTS

The mean failure load of treated vertebra (4118 N) was significantly higher than either control (2841 N) or sham (2186 N) vertebra (p < 0.05 for: treatment vs. control, treatment vs. sham). Treated vertebra (1.11 mm) showed a significantly higher mean displacement at failure than sham vertebra (0.80 mm) (p < 0.05 for: treatment vs. sham). In the control group, the mean displacement at failure was 0.99 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

This biomechanical study shows that a local osteo-enhancement procedure using a triphasic implant material significantly increases the load at failure and displacement at failure in cadaveric osteoporotic vertebra.

Development of pulmonary endovascular metastases following vertebroplasty: case report

A 69-year-old man developed pulmonary metastases following vertebroplasties for pathological fractures of vertebrae T12-L4. The fractures developed due to spinal metastases from castrate-resistant prostate cancer. A CT scan performed 1 month prior indicated no evidence of pulmonary malignancy. However, CT scans performed 2 months after the vertebroplasties demonstrated intravascular pulmonary metastases distributed similarly to embolized polymethylmethacrylate. Vertebroplasty is a well-established procedure for symptomatic management of vertebral compression fractures. However, studies have demonstrated an increase in circulating tumor cells following vertebroplasties, theoretically increasing the risk of distant metastases. In this case, the chronicity and radiological findings suggest that the pulmonary intravascular metastases may have resulted from the vertebroplasties.

Analgesia of percutaneous thermal ablation plus cementoplasty for cancer bone metastases

Background

The purpose of this study was to review recent research related to the analgesic effect of ablation therapy combined with cementoplasty, as well as to identify the duration of analgesic effect and risk for cement leaks.

Methods

A systematic literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, and annual meeting proceedings of the oncology society and other organizations were conducted.

Results

Twelve retrospective studies met the inclusion criteria. Four of the studies included in the review assessed the changes immediately after treatment. Five studies were subjected to analyses of analgesic effect of combined percutaneous thermal ablation and Cementoplasty at 24 weeks after treatment. Incidences of leakage of bone cement during surgery were detected in 4 out of 12 studies. The change of mean pain scores at 1 days, at 1 week, and at 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks after treatment were -3.90 (95% CI: -4.80 to -3.00), -4.55 (95% CI:-5.46 to -3.64), -4.78 (95% CI: -5.70 to -3.86), -5.16 (95% CI: -6.39 to -3.92), and -5.91 (95% CI: -6.63 to -5.19). The relative risk of cement leakage was 0.10 (95% CI: -6.63 to -5.19).

Conclusions

Our systematic review suggested that thermal ablation combined with cementoplasty could be a safe and effective intervention for the management of bone metastases-induced pain.

A novel calcium phosphate-based nanocomposite for the augmentation of cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screws fixation: A cadaver and biomechanical study

Background/objective

Both polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and traditional calcium phosphate–based cements have some deficiencies as augmentation materials for pedicle screw fixation. Here, a novel calcium phosphate–based nanocomposite (CPN) for the augmentation of pedicle screw fixation was developed based on previous study, and the handling properties, biomechanical performance, and biodegradation behaviour of CPN were evaluated and compared with clinical PMMA by means of a cadaver study and animal tests.

Methods

Bone mineral density of the lumbar vertebrae was tested. Pedicle screws were placed into the lumbar vertebrae under the guidance of three dimensionally printed templates; each of which was designed based on computed tomography (CT) reconstruction of each vertebrae ​and augmented with either PMMA or CPN. X-ray and CT scan were used to evaluate the accuracy of screw placement and dispersion as well as interdigitation of bone cement. The axial pull-out strength and maximum torque were tested using a mechanical testing machine. Degradation behaviour of CPN was evaluated by in vitro immersion tests for 8 weeks and in vivo rabbit femur defect model for up to 6 months, respectively.

Results

Standard mechanical tests revealed that PMMA was much stronger than CPN after setting (compressive strength 95 vs. 49 ​MPa, respectively, p ​< ​0.001). Results of the projection area and volume distribution of cement along the distal end of the screws revealed that CPN exhibited unique dispersing and interdigitation abilities compared with PMMA. Specifically, CPN dispersed uniformly and symmetrically along the screw, while PMMA was limited to the proximal part of the screw. Axial pull-out test results showed that the axial pull-out strengths of CPN- and PMMA-augmented pedicle screws were similar (1199 ​± ​225 ​N vs 1337 ​± ​483 ​N, respectively) and not significantly different (p ​= ​0.47), although CPN was an intrinsically weaker material than PMMA. Similarly, CPN showed average torque values of 0.72 ​± ​0.31 ​N·m slightly lower than those of PMMA (0.96 ​± ​0.23 ​N·m), but statistically there was no significant difference between CPN and PMMA (p ​= ​0.21). In a rabbit model of femoral bone defect, the implanted CPN maintained its clear boundary and there is no disintegration in the cement clump after 20 days and 24 weeks, and there was moderate bioabsorption of CPN and clearly new bone ingrowth at the absorbed sites after 24 weeks.

Conclusion

A new nanocomposite cement CPN, designed for replacing the nondegradable PMMA cement and overcoming the mechanical inferiority of calcium phosphate cement, was evaluated for its biomechanical and biodegradation behaviours in cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screws (CICPS) application. Although CPN is a mechanically weaker material than PMMA, CPN demonstrates similar biomechanical properties to PMMA in the application of augmentation for CICPS fixation in cadaveric vertebrae. This improvement in biomechanical property is attributed to a better dispersion and interdigitation mode of CPN. In addition, the animal study results suggest the in vivo absorption of CPN is slow enough and matches the bone ingrowth.

The translational potential of this article

This work reports a cadaveric and biomechanical study of novel CPN for the application in the augmentation of CICPS. The results suggest that CPN has equivalent or better biomechanical and interdigitation performance compared with PMMA. Together with the biodegradability and ossointegration capability, CPN reveals high translational potential as a new bone cements for load-bearing bone fixation and repair.

Vertebral collapse and polymethylmethacrylate breakage after vertebroplasty: A case report

RATIONALE

Vertebral augmentation has become the main treatment for osteoporotic vertebral fractures (VFs). In this article, we report a very rare case of vertebral collapse and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) breakage after vertebroplasty. We describe the clinical characteristics and revision surgery performed to remove the broken PMMA cement, maintain stability, and corrects the kyphotic deformity, and we analyze the possible causes.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 72-year-old man who suffered back pain underwent first lumbar vertebra (L1) percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) due to osteoporosis and a vertebral fracture in May 2013. Postoperatively, the patient's back pain was markedly alleviated. Unfortunately, his lumbar back pain recurred in November 2015.

DIAGNOSES

Plain radiographs showed collapse of the L1 vertebral body, breakage of the PMMA cement, and severe kyphosis at the thoracolumbar junction.

INTERVENTIONS

The posterior pedicle was internally fixed and an anterior artificial vertebral body implant was placed to maintain stability and correct the kyphotic deformity in a 2-step surgical procedure.

OUTCOMES

The back pain was alleviated and the patient returned to daily life for more than two years.

LESSONS

This case demonstrates that PVP is not a simple minimally invasive surgery, and significant postsurgical care is necessary. The true cause of this rare phenomenon remains unclear, but the long-term use of steroids, new injuries, and poorly corrected kyphosis after PVP may play a role. Surgeons must be aware of the kinds of complications that may occur, including rare complications such as vertebral lysis.

"Targeted Percutaneous Vertebroplasty" Versus Traditional Percutaneous Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture

Objective. In this randomized, nonblinded, controlled study, the feasibility and precision of "targeted percutaneous vertebroplasty" ("targeted PVP") for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) was evaluated. Methods. A total of 42 patients, aged 50 to 87 years, with OVCF were randomly divided into 2 groups: A and B. Group A underwent "targeted PVP," and group B underwent traditional PVP with the guidance of C-arm fluoroscopy. Fluoroscopy times for skin puncture points (FTSPP), total radiation doses (TRD), total fluoroscopy times (TFT), and operation time were set as the main evaluation indicators. Results. FTSPP (1.52 ± 0.51 in group A vs 6.62 ± 2.58 in group B, U < .001), TRD (6.26 ± 1.51 in group A vs 11.32 ± 4.21 in group B, P < .001), TFT (16.57 ± 2.79 in group A vs 26.05 ± 6.18 in group B, P < .001), and operation time (20.05 ± 3.38 in group A vs 25.43 ±5.11 in group B, U < .001) were statistically different in the 2 groups. The incidence of cement leakage that occurred in group A (1/21, 4.76%) was significantly less than that in group B (9/21, 42.9%, P < 0.05). Conclusions. "Targeted PVP" may achieve (1) less skin positioning fluoroscopy times, less total fluoroscopy times and dose, shorter operation time, which is more precise than traditional PVP; (2) less incidence of cement leakage; and (3) visualization of the fractured vertebra, which is probably more valuable for the treatment of complicated OVCF patients.

Percutaneous curved vertebroplasty in the treatment of thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of percutaneous curved vertebroplasty (PCVP) in treating thoracic and lumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs).

Methods

Patients with thoracolumbar OVCFs were recruited and randomly divided into three treatment groups: PCVP, unilateral percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) or bilateral PVP. Bone cement dispersion in the fractured vertebrae was observed. Surgery duration, X-ray frequency, bone cement injection volume, bone cement leakage rate and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores were recorded.

Results

Among 78 patients included, surgery duration and X-ray frequency were significantly lower in the PCVP and unilateral PVP groups versus bilateral PVP group. Bone cement injection volume was significantly higher in the bilateral PVP group (6.3 ± 1.4 ml) versus unilateral PVP (3.5 ± 1.1 ml) and PCVP groups (4.6 ± 1.2 ml). VAS scores at 24 h and 3 months post-surgery were significantly decreased versus baseline in all groups. The bone cement leakage rate was lowest in the PCVP group (8.8% [3/34 patients]).

Conclusion

PCVP is associated with reduced trauma, less complicated surgery with shorter duration, fewer X-rays, lower complication rate, and quicker postoperative recovery versus unilateral and bilateral PVP.

Fatal cardiac perforation and pulmonary embolism of leaked cement after percutaneous vertebroplasty

Percutaneous vertebroplasty consists of percutaneous injection of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) via a transpedicular approach for the treatment of collapsed osteoporotic or metastatic vertebrae. Even if percutaneous vertebroplasty is considered to be minimally invasive, threatening complications can occur. Cement leakage is the most common complication of percutaneous vertebroplasty. Rigorous patient selection and individual therapeutic strategy may reduce the occurrence of leakage, in particular the risk of cement entry into the venous system and the spinal canal is the potent major hazard of this technique. Cement pulmonary and cardiac embolism are reported in literature as a cause of unexpected death after percutaneous vertebroplasty. Authors report a fatal case of pulmonary cement embolization occurred after vertebroplasty with haemopericardium, due to the perforation of the right atrium wall from a cement solidified fragment. A complete post mortem examination documented the presence of multiple cement fragments in the pulmonary arteries and transmural perforation of the wall of the right atrium by a whitish needle-like foreign body. Pulmonary microembolization was observed under polarized light.

The safety and efficacy of percutaneous vertebroplasty for patients over 90 years old

OBJECTIVE

To retrospectively analyze the safety and efficacy of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for patients aged 90 or over.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 130 consecutive patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures who underwent a first-time PVP between May 2015 and September 2017 at our institution. We divided them into the elder patient group aged 90 years or over (n = 21) and the younger patient group under 90 years (n = 109). We compared the two groups' background, treatments, and outcomes using univariate analyzes and the log rank test.

RESULTS

A significant difference was observed in dementia (19% in the younger group vs. 48% in the elder group, p < 0.01). No significant difference was revealed in the procedure time or the rate of complications. The post-PVP mobility function and the pain level were significantly improved compared to before PVP in both groups (p < 0.01 each). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in the recurrence of vertebral fracture after treatment (17% vs. 14%) or the 1-year survival rate (79% vs. 86%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results of our analyzes suggested that a PVP can safely and effectively contribute to pain relief as well as the restoration of ambulation for patients aged 90 or over.

Vertebral Fragility Fractures (VFF)-Who, when and how to operate

Vertebral Fragility Fractures (VFF) are common and lead to pain, long term disability and increased mortality. Most patients will have mild to moderate pain symptoms and can be managed conservatively. However, patients with severe pain who have minimal or no pain relief with potent analgesia, or who only achieve adequate pain relief with high doses of morphine based analgesia which results in significant adverse events, should be considered for vertebral augmentation. Ideally, for vertebral augmentation, patients should present within four months of the fracture (onset of acute pain) and have at least 3 weeks of failure of conservative treatment although early intervention may be more appropriate for hospitalised patients, who tend to be older, more frail and likely to be less tolerant to the adverse effects of conservative treatment. The Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) recommends Percutaneous Vertebroplasty as the first line surgical augmentation technique for VFF in older people, which has been shown to improve pain symptoms, allow early restoration of functional mobility and may reduce the risk of further vertebral collapse. CIRSE recommends percutaneous Balloon Kyphoplasty as second line treatment in VFF, although the optimal indication is for acute traumatic vertebral fractures (less than 7-10 days) in younger people. Assessment and treatment of underlying osteoporosis is important to reduce the risk of further fractures in older people with VFF.

The Safety and Efficacy of CT-Guided, Fluoroscopy-Free Vertebroplasty in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study is to analyze the safety and efficacy of a novel technique of computed tomography-guided, fluoroscopy-free vertebroplasty as an adjunct to help prevent proximal junction kyphosis (PJK) in long-segment posterior spinal fusions.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of 118 consecutive patients with adult spinal deformity who underwent long-segment fusion with vertebroplasty augmentation from 2013-2016 at a single institution. For each patient, we collected demographics, surgical information, length of stay, discharge disposition, and complications, including reoperation, PJK, and PJK requiring reoperation. We reviewed all postoperative radiographs to assess for cement leakage from vertebroplasty. These patients were compared to a historical control of 253 patients who underwent adult spinal deformity surgery without vertebroplasty augmentation.

RESULTS

The PJK rate of 14% and the PJK requiring reoperation rate of 3% in the cohort of 118 patients who underwent vertebroplasty-augmented fusion was significantly lower than that of the 253 historical controls at our institution who did not undergo vertebroplasty (40% PJK rate, 17% PJK-rate requiring reoperation; both P < 0.001). After controlling for patient and other surgical factors in multivariate analyses, vertebroplasty was significantly associated with lower rates of PJK and PJK requiring reoperation (P < 0.001 and P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Our novel vertebroplasty technique is safe, and it eliminates the need for additional fluoroscopy in cases already using the O-arm to verify screw placement. In addition, it is an effective technique for reducing PJK in adult spinal deformity surgery compared with historical institutional controls.

Iatrogenic peritonitis following an incident during ablation of a pedicle screw

Immediate complications can arise due to faulty implantation of material during fusion procedures, but none have been reported in connection with ablation of material in the spine. We report a case of intraperitoneal migration of a pedicle screw during attempted removal. It crossed the psoas muscle and perforated a small-intestine loop, triggering hemorrhagic shock and peritonitis by perforation. We analyze the causes and mechanisms underlying this exceptional case of migration, with a view to sharing preventive measures. Initial extra-pedicular screw positioning and the pressure exerted to remove it were responsible for this serious incident.

Pulmonary Embolism from Cement Augmentation of the Vertebral Body

Pulmonary cement embolism (PCE) can follow cement augmentation procedures for spine fractures due to osteoporosis, traumatic injuries, and painful metastatic lesions. PCE is underreported and it is likely that many cases remain undiagnosed. Risk factors for PCE have been identified, which can help alert clinicians to patients likely to develop the condition, and there are recommended techniques to reduce its incidence. Most patients with PCE are asymptomatic or only develop transient symptoms, although a few may exhibit florid cardiorespiratory manifestations which can ultimately be fatal. Diagnosis is mainly by radiographic means, commonly using simple radiographs and computed tomography scans of the chest with ancillary tests that assess the patient's cardiorespiratory condition. Management depends on the location and size of the emboli as well as the patient's symptomatology. The aim of this review is to raise awareness of the not uncommon complications of PCE following vertebral cement augmentation and the possibility of serious sequelae. Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of PCE are presented, based on the most recent literature.

Is Redo Vertebroplasty an Effective Treatment on the Same Vertebra?

OBJECTIVE

Redo vertebroplasty is rarely reported. Previous studies on redo vertebroplasty included a small number of patients and lacked radiographic analysis. The purpose of this study was to assess the radiographic outcomes (restoration of vertebral body) and clinical outcomes (pain relief) in patients with recurrent or unrelieved pain after vertebroplasty with a minimum follow-up duration of 12 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The records of 22 patients (23 cases), who underwent redo vertebroplasty between March 2001 and February 2014, were analyzed. Vertebral height loss (VHL) and wedge angle (WA) were measured before and after redo vertebroplasty. Subjective back pain was assessed via the numeric rating scale (NRS) score.

RESULTS

VHL after the initial vertebroplasty was 18.7%. Preoperative and final VHL of redo vertebroplasty were 32.3 and 18.3%, respectively. WA after initial vertebroplasty was 9.5°. Preoperative and final WA of redo vertebroplasty was 13.9° and 9°, respectively. Changes of VHL and WA values at each time point were significant (p < 0.01). The change of NRS pain score at each time point, including the period between post-initial vertebroplasty and final follow-up, was statistically significant (p < 0.01); 18 patients (82%) showed marked pain relief and 4 patients (18%) showed partial pain relief.

CONCLUSIONS

Redo vertebroplasty seems to be an effective way to achieve pain relief and vertebral body height restorations without major complications in patients with unrelieved or recurrent back pain after vertebroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 4, case series.

[Effectiveness of percutaneous endoscopic technique in treatment of intraspinal cement leakage after percutaneous vertebroplasty]

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of percutaneous endoscopic technique in the treatment of intraspinal cement leakage after percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP).

Methods

Between May 2014 and March 2016, 5 patients with lower limb pain and spinal cord injury caused by intraspinal cement leakage after PVP, were treated with percutaneous endoscopic spinal decompression. Of 5 cases, 3 were male and 2 were female, aged from 65 to 83 years (mean, 74.4 years). The course of disease was 10-30 days (mean, 16.2 days). Imageological examinations confirmed the levels of cement leakage at T 12, L 1 in 3 cases, and at L 1, 2 in 2 cases; bilateral sides were involved in 1 case and unilateral side in 4 cases. Two patients had lower limb pain, whose visual analogue scale (VAS) were 8 and 7; 3 patients had lower extremities weakness, whose Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) 29 scores were 18, 20, and 19. According to American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) impairment scale, neural function was rated as grade E in 2 cases and grade D in 3 cases.

Results

The operation time was 55-119 minutes (mean, 85.6 minutes), and the blood loss was 30-80 mL (mean, 48 mL). CT scan and three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction at 1 day after operation showed that cement leakage was removed in all patients. Five cases were followed up 6-21 months (mean, 12 months). In 2 patients with lower limb pain, and VAS score was significantly decreased to 2 at last follow-up. In 3 patients with lower extremities weakness, the muscle strength was improved progressively, and the JOA29 scores at last follow-up were 21, 23, and 22.

Conclusion

Percutaneous endoscopic technique for intraspinal cement leakage after PVP is safe, effective, and feasible.