Original Article

Pain Outcome and Vertebral Body Height Restoration in Patients Undergoing Kyphoplasty

Authors: Theofilos G. Machinis, MD, Kostas N. Fountas, MD, PHD, Carlos H. Feltes, MD, Kim W. Johnston, MD, Joe S. Robinson, MD, FACS

Abstract

Introduction: Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive technique, has recently been developed to provide immediate pain relief, biomechanical stabilization, prevention of fracture progression, vertebral height restoration, and prevention or reversal of kyphosis to patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF).


Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 24 patients treated with kyphoplasty. A total of 37 vertebral levels were augmented. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were documented in the immediate pre- and postoperative period, as well as 4, 12, and 72 weeks after the procedure. Vertebral body height restoration was assessed on postoperative x-rays.


Results: Mean preoperative VAS score was 9.3 and improved to 5.4 in the immediate postoperative period. At 4, 12 and 72 weeks postoperatively, mean VAS scores were 5.1, 5.9, and 6.1 respectively. All patients returned to their daily activities within 24 hours. No significant restoration of vertebral body height was observed.


Conclusion: In regards to pain relief and postoperative functional outcome, kyphoplasty is a safe and effective treatment modality for osteoporotic VCFs, even when no significant restoration of vertebral body height is achieved.


Key Points


* Kyphoplasty is an effective treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, resulting in immediate and long-lasting pain relief.


* A desirable functional outcome and significant improvement in the quality of life may be achieved, even when no restoration of vertebral body height can be obtained.


* Kyphoplasty is a safe procedure, with only minimal associated complications.

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