Clinical evaluation of vertebroplasty for multiple-level osteoporotic spinal compression fracture in the elderly.
BACKGROUND
Outstanding results have been achieved using vertebroplasty for the treatment of osteoporotic spinal compression fractures. However, few reports are available in the management of multiple-level compression fractures due to severe osteoporosis. This study prospectively evaluated the clinical and surgical outcomes of patients receiving vertebroplasty due to multiple-level osteoporotic spinal compression fractures.


METHODS
Eighteen patients underwent more than four levels of vertebroplasty due to multiple-level osteoporotic spinal compression fracture. All patients received a preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) check-up to determine which level needed vertebroplasty. Detailed evaluations were made in accordance with the patients' clinical tracking, pre- and postoperative daily activities, Denis pain scale, and Roland-Morris score.


RESULTS
After an average follow-up period of 36 months, the group receiving multiple-level vertebroplasty showed significant improvement, as registered on the Denis pain scale, Roland-Morris score, and in the activity of daily living. No major complications occurred during operation or postoperation, except one patient who expired due to suffocation at the rehabilitation center 3 weeks after vertebroplasty.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of vertebroplasty with cement to treat multiple-level osteoporotic spinal compression fractures in the elderly does have value, and brings good results to patients which were previously unimaginable. Preoperative MRI to evaluate the non-union levels and determine which levels needed vertebroplasty is very important.
Yu
Shang-Won
SW
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, E-DA Hospital / I-Shou University, 1, E-Da Road, Jiau-Shu Tsuen, Yan-Chau Shiang 824, Kaohsiung County, Taiwan, ROC.
Yang
Shih-Chieh
SC
Kao
Yu-Hsien
YH
Yen
Cheng-Yo
CY
Tu
Yuan-Kun
YK
Chen
Lih-Huei
LH
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D050815:Fractures, Compression / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D054854:Vertebroplasty