Risk factors for new vertebral compression fractures after vertebroplasty: a meta-analysis

Expanded analysis of vertebral endplate disruption and its impact on vertebral compression fracture risk

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Vertebral compression fracture (VCF) is a potential serious complication of spinal stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). Previously we noted a correlation between advanced Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS), tumor-related endplate (EP) disruption, and certain primary pathologies with increased VCF risk. Here, we report on an expanded patient cohort to further examine EP disruption's role in VCF.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at a single institution, gathering demographic and treatment data from patients who underwent spinal SBRT between 2013 and 2020. EP disruption was identified on pre-SBRT CT scans. Chronic steroid use was defined as steroids administered for 4 weeks or more. The 1-year cumulative incidence of VCF was evaluated by follow-up MRI and CT scans at 3-month intervals post-treatment. Based on multivariate analysis, a nomogram was created using four independent predictors: EP disruption, steroid use, SINS ≥ 7, and adverse histology.

RESULTS

A total of 173 patients were included. The median follow-up was 19 months. Approximately 69 patients (40%) had EP disruption. Thirty patients (17%) experienced a VCF at a median of 4.8 months from SBRT. Patients with adverse histology (HR 2.98, 95% CI [1.42-6.30], p 0.004), steroid use (HR 3.60, 95% CI [1.36-9.51], p 0.01), EP disruption (HR 4.16, 95% CI [1.57-11.05], p 0.004) and a SINS of ≥ 7 (HR 3.63, 95% CI [1.39-9.46], p 0.001) were associated with increased risk of VCF. Based on these findings, a nomogram was created with these four variables stratifying groups at low, intermediate, and high risk of VCF correlating with rates of 2%, 21% and 58% risk (P <.001).

CONCLUSION

In this expanded pooled analysis, consistent with previously published findings, EP disruption, adverse pathology, and higher SINS scores were associated with an increased risk of VCF. Additionally, we found that chronic steroid use for four weeks or greater also correlated with a higher risk of VCF.

Adjacent Vertebral Refracture Prediction Model Based on Imaging Data After Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture

OBJECTIVES

To establish a predictive model to evaluate the risk of adjacent vertebral refracture (VRF) after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) based on perioperative imaging data.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective cohort study which established a predictive model of VRF after PKP for OVCF. Patients who underwent PKP for OVCF in our hospital between January 2018 and December 2020 were enrolled and divided into a refracture group and normal group. Perioperative imaging data including preoperative bone mineral density (BMD), fatty infiltration (FI%) of paravertebral muscle, sagittal parameters of the spine and pelvis, and recovery rate of vertebral height were collected. The prediction model is obtained by multifactor logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 242 patients were included, including 23 cases in the VRF group and 219 cases in the normal group. There were statistical differences in BMD, FI%, recovery rate of vertebral height, and sagittal imbalance between the 2 groups. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of continuous variables showed that BMD ≤-2.80, FI% ≥40%, and recovery rate of vertebral height ≥ 10% were the cutoff values. Logistic regression analysis showed that BMD ≤-2.80, FI% ≥40%, and sagittal imbalance were independent risk factors for VRF. The area under the curve according to the predicted probability was 0.85 (P < 0.05). After simplifying the model, the total point of the model was 7 points, with a cutoff value of 5 points.

CONCLUSIONS

The prediction model obtained in this study can predict refracture after PKP for OVCF early and effectively. It has an excellent predictive effect which is suitable for clinicians.

[Translated article] Truths and myths about augmentation techniques in the treatment of fragility fractures

The main event of osteoporosis is fragility fractures. Vertebral compression fractures are the most commonly fragility fracture related to osteoporosis. Our goal is to review the available literature to confirm or deny concepts learned about spinal cementation and adapt our clinical practice according to scientific evidence. In the complex world of spine surgery, constant innovations seek to improve the quality of life of patients. Among these, vertebral augmentation has emerged as an increasingly popular technique, but often shrouded in myths and misunderstandings. In this systematic review, we will thoroughly explore the truths behind vertebral augmentation, unravelling common myths and providing a clear insight into this technique. As specialists in the field, it is crucial to understand the reality surrounding these interventions to offer our patients the best possible information and make informed decisions.

The Closer Vicinity to Treated Vertebrae in Percutaneous Vertebroplasty, the Higher Rate of New Vertebral Compression Fractures at Follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether risk of new vertebral compression fractures (NVCFs) was associated with vicinity to treated vertebrae in percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs).

METHODS

All OVCF (T6-L5) patients treated with PVP between January 2016 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Vicinity to treated vertebrae was defined as the number of vertebrae between an untreated and its closest treated level. The closest treated level was chosen as reference vertebra. Clinical, radiologic, and surgical parameters were compared between groups of reference vertebrae for each vicinity NVCF.

RESULTS

In total, 1348 patients with 1592 fractured and 14,584 normal vertebrae were enrolled. NVCF was identified in 20.1% (271 of 1348) patients in 2.2% (319 of 14584) vertebrae in a mean follow-up time of 24.3 ± 11.9 months. Rate of NVCF in vicinity 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 level were 4.6% (130 of 2808), 2.4% (62 of 2558), 1.8% (42 of 2365), 1.5% (31 of 2131), 1.3% (23 of 1739), 1.3% (17 of 1298), 0.8% (7 of 847), 0.9% (4 of 450), 0.8% (2 of 245), 0.9% (1 of 117), and 0% (0 of 26), respectively. Rate of NVCF in vicinity 1 level was significantly higher than that in vicinity 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 level, respectively. However, compared to reference vertebrae for vicinity 1 NVCF, any clinical, radiologic, or surgical parameters were not significantly different in those for vicinity 2, 3, and 4 NVCF, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The closer vicinity to treated vertebrae in PVP, the higher rate of NVCF at follow-up. However, any clinical, radiologic, or surgical parameters might not matter in this phenomenon of vicinity-related NVCF.

Truths and myths about augmentation techniques in the treatment of fragility fractures

The main event of osteoporosis is fragility fractures. Vertebral compression fractures are the most commonly fragility fracture related to osteoporosis. Our goal is to review the available literature to confirm or deny concepts learned about spinal cementation and adapt our clinical practice according to scientific evidence. In the complex world of spine surgery, constant innovations seek to improve the quality of life of patients. Among these, vertebral augmentation has emerged as an increasingly popular technique, but often shrouded in myths and misunderstandings. In this systematic review, we will thoroughly explore the truths behind vertebral augmentation, unraveling common myths and providing a clear insight into this technique. As specialists in the field, it is crucial to understand the reality surrounding these interventions to offer our patients the best possible information and make informed decisions.

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.

Development of a nomogram model for prediction of new adjacent vertebral compression fractures after vertebroplasty

BACKGROUND

Vertebroplasty is the main minimally invasive operation for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF), which has the advantages of rapid pain relief and shorter recovery time. However, new adjacent vertebral compression fracture (AVCF) occurs frequently after vertebroplasty. The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk factors of AVCF and establish a clinical prediction model.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected the clinical data of patients who underwent vertebroplasty in our hospital from June 2018 to December 2019. The patients were divided into a non-refracture group (289 cases) and a refracture group (43 cases) according to the occurrence of AVCF. The independent predictive factors for postoperative new AVCF were determined by univariate analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression, and multivariable logistic regression analysis. A nomogram clinical prediction model was established based on relevant risk factors, and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to evaluate the prediction effect and clinical value of the model. After internal validation, patients who underwent vertebroplasty in our hospital from January 2020 to December 2020, including a non-refracture group (156 cases) and a refracture group (21 cases), were included as the validation cohort to evaluate the prediction model again.

RESULTS

Three independent risk factors of low bone mass density (BMD), leakage of bone cement and "O" shaped distribution of bone cement were screened out by LASSO regression and logistic regression analysis. The area under the curve (AUC) of the model in the training cohort and the validation cohort was 0.848 (95%CI: 0.786-0.909) and 0.867 (95%CI: 0.796-0.939), respectively, showing good predictive ability. The calibration curves showed the correlation between prediction and actual status. The DCA showed that the prediction model was clinically useful within the whole threshold range.

CONCLUSION

Low BMD, leakage of bone cement and "O" shaped distribution of bone cement are independent risk factors for AVCF after vertebroplasty. The nomogram prediction model has good predictive ability and clinical benefit.

Association between opportunistic vertebral bone density measurements and new vertebral fractures after percutaneous vertebral cementoplasty: a case-control study

OBJECTIVES

To study the relationship between opportunistic CT bone density measurements and the occurrence of new vertebral fractures after percutaneous vertebral cementoplasty (PVC) of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF).

METHODS

A prospective analysis of retrospective data of 275 patients with OVCF treated by PVC between 2014 and 2019 with a clinico-radiological follow-up one year after treatment was conducted. Opportunistic bone density measurements were obtained at the trabecular bone of the L1 or an adjacent vertebra in Hounsfield units performed on the preoperative CT study. These density measurements values ​​were then compared between patients with and without new OCVF and in various population subgroups.

RESULTS

There were 275 patients included, with 53 (19%) presenting a new OCVF and 24 (9%) developing a fracture cascade. The median opportunistic density measurements ​​in patients with recurrent OCVF were lower than those without (median 52[40.5]) HU and 77[49] HU)(p < 0.00001). Among the patients with new OVCF the median opportunistic density measurements in patients with fracture cascades were also lower than those without (44 HU and 62 HU, respectively) (p < 0.0096). Patients with density measurements under 61 HU were 3.6 times more likely to present recurrent fractures and those with density under 54 HU were 9.8 times more likely to develop a fracture cascade. The 36 HU threshold yielded a high specificity (90-91%) for the prediction of recurrent fractures and fracture cascade but with low sensitivity (respectively 26% and 37%).

CONCLUSION

Low opportunistic vertebral density measurements are associated with a higher risk of OVCF and fracture cascades after PVC.

KEY POINTS

• Low opportunistic density measurements are associated with a higher risk of OVCF and fracture cascades after PVC. • Measuring bone density before performing a PVC could help predict the risk of new vertebral fracture after treatment • Patient management could be adapted according to bone density.

Three generations of treatments for osteoporotic vertebral fractures: what is the evidence?

The management of vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) is based on conservative treatment and minimally invasive vertebral augmentation procedures. However, the role of vertebral augmentation is now being questioned by clinical trials and extensive studies. The aim of this review is to report the most relevant evidences on effectiveness, safety, and indications of the currently available vertebral augmentation techniques. Conservative treatment with bracing is effective in reducing acute but it has no effect on segmental kyphosis progression and pseudoarthrosis can occur. Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PV) was the first vertebral augmentation technique to be proposed for the treatment of VCFs. Two blinded and randomized clinical trials compared PV to a sham procedure and no significant differences in terms of efficacy were reported. More recent studies have suggested that PV can still benefit patients with acute VCFs and severe pain at onset. Balloon kyphoplasty (BK) was developed to improve the segmental alignment restoring the height of collapsed vertebrae. BK allows similar pain relief and disability improvement, as well as greater kyphosis correction compared to PV, moreover BKP seems to reduce cement leakage. Vertebral body stenting (VBS) and the KIVA system are third generation techniques of vertebral augmentation. VBS aims to increase the effectiveness in restoring the segmental alignment, while the KIVA system can prevent cement leakage. These techniques are effective and safe, even if their superiority to BK has yet to be proven by studies with a high level of evidence.

Relationship between sarcopenia/paravertebral muscles and the incidence of vertebral refractures following percutaneous kyphoplasty: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to reveal the associations of osteoporotic vertebral compression refracture (OVCRF) incidence with sarcopenia and paravertebral muscles (PVM).

METHODS

A total of 214 elderly patients who underwent percutaneous kyphoplasty in our hospital between January 2017 and December 2019 were analyzed. Data on possible risk factors, including sex, age, weight, height, diabetes, treated vertebral levels (thoracolumbar junction [(T10-L2]), vacuum clefts, and body mass index (BMI), were collected. Preoperative bone mineral density (BMD) and appendicular muscle mass were evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Nutritional status was evaluated using the Mini Nutritional Assessment. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to evaluate the physiological cross-sectional area of the PVM.

RESULTS

Overall, 74 (15 men and 59 women) and 60 (55 women and 14 men) patients developed OVCRF and sarcopenia, respectively. Sarcopenia is related to advanced age, ower BMD and BMI values. Sarcopenia-related indicators (PVM fat rate, appendicular muscle mass index, grip strength) were significantly lower in the sarcopenia group. Univariate analysis showed a correlation between OVCRF and BMD, BMI, diabetes, sarcopenia, and age. Multivariate analysis suggested that fatty infiltration of the PVM, BMD, sarcopenia, diabetes, BMI, and treated vertebral level remained as the independent predictors of OVCRF (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The association between sarcopenia and PVM as independent risk factors for OVCRF was established in this study; therefore, sarcopenia should be greatly considered in OVCRF prevention.

Prevention and Treatment of Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis in Adults: Consensus Recommendations From the Belgian Bone Club

Glucocorticoids are effective immunomodulatory drugs used for many inflammatory disorders as well as in transplant recipients. However, both iatrogenic and endogenous glucocorticoid excess are also associated with several side effects including an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) is a common secondary cause of osteoporosis in adults. Despite availability of clear evidence and international guidelines for the prevention of GIOP, a large treatment gap remains. In this narrative review, the Belgian Bone Club (BBC) updates its 2006 consensus recommendations for the prevention and treatment of GIOP in adults. The pathophysiology of GIOP is multifactorial. The BBC strongly advises non-pharmacological measures including physical exercise, smoking cessation and avoidance of alcohol abuse in all adults at risk for osteoporosis. Glucocorticoids are associated with impaired intestinal calcium absorption; the BBC therefore strongly recommend sufficient calcium intake and avoidance of vitamin D deficiency. We recommend assessment of fracture risk, taking age, sex, menopausal status, prior fractures, glucocorticoid dose, other clinical risk factors and bone mineral density into account. Placebo-controlled randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy of alendronate, risedronate, zoledronate, denosumab and teriparatide in GIOP. We suggest monitoring by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and vertebral fracture identification one year after glucocorticoid initiation. The trabecular bone score might be considered during DXA monitoring. Extended femur scans might be considered at the time of DXA imaging in glucocorticoid users on long-term (≥ 3 years) antiresorptive therapy. Bone turnover markers may be considered for monitoring treatment with anti-resorptive or osteoanabolic drugs in GIOP. Although the pathophysiology of solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation-induced osteoporosis extends beyond GIOP alone, the BBC recommends similar evaluation, prevention, treatment and follow-up principles in these patients. Efforts to close the treatment gap in GIOP and implement available effective fracture prevention strategies into clinical practice in primary, secondary and tertiary care are urgently needed.

Occurrence of adjacent segment fractures after surgical treatment of an osteoporotic vertebral fracture: a retrospective comparison between two different treatment methods

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are a major healthcare problem. Vertebral cement augmentation (VCA) is frequently used as a minimally invasive surgical approach to manage symptomatic fractures. However, there is a potential risk of adjacent segment fracture (ASF), which may require second surgery. The addition of transcutaneous screw-fixation with cement augmentation superior and inferior to the fracture [Hybrid transcutaneous screw fixation (HTSF)] might represent an alternative treatment option to reduce the incidence of ASF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively compared surgery time, hospital stay, intraoperative complication rate and the occurrence of ASF with the need for a surgical treatment in a cohort of 165 consecutive patients receiving either VCA or HTSF in our academic neurosurgical department from 2012 to 2020. The median follow-up was 52.3 weeks in the VCA-group and 51.9 in the HTSF-group.

RESULTS

During the study period, 93 patients underwent VCA, and 72 had HTSF. Of all patients, 113 were females (64 VCA; 49 HTSF) and 52 were males (29 VCA; 23 HTSF). The median age was 77 years in both groups. Median surgery time was 32 min in the VCA-group and 81 min in the HTSF-group (p < 0.0001). No surgery-related complications occurred in the VCA-group with two in the HTSF-group (p = 0.19). ASF was significantly higher in the VCA-group compared to HTSF (24 [26%] vs. 8 [11%] patients; p < 0.02). The proportion of patients requiring additional surgery due to ASF was higher in the VCA-group (13 vs. 6%), but this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.18). Median hospital stay was 9 days in the VCA-group and 11.5 days in the HTSF-group (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this single-center cohort study, HTSF appears to be a safe and effective option for the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Surgical time and duration of hospital stay were longer in the HTSF-group, but the rate of ASF was significantly reduced with this approach. Further studies are required to ascertain whether HTSF results in superior long-term outcomes or improved quality of life.

Risk factors of vertebral re-fracture after PVP or PKP for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, especially in Eastern Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) and kyphoplasty (PKP) have been widely used to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF), but the risk of vertebral re-fracture after PVP/PKP remains controversial. This study aims to investigate the incidence and risk factors of vertebral re-fracture after PVP/PKP.

Methods

Relevant literatures published up to November 2021 were collected from PubMed, Embase and Web of Science. A meta-analysis was performed to extract data associated with risk factors of SVCF following the PRISMA guidelines. Also, pooled odds ratio (OR) or weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated.

Results

A total of 23 studies, encompassing 9372 patients with OVCF, met the inclusion criteria. 1255 patients (13.39%) suffered re-fracture after PVP/PKP surgery. A total of 22 studies were from Eastern Asia and only 1 study was from Europe. Female sex (OR = 1.34, 95%CI 1.09–1.64, P = 0.006), older age (WMD = 2.04, 95%CI 0.84–3.24, P = 0.001), lower bone mineral density (BMD, WMD = − 0.38, 95%CI − 0.49–0.26, P < 0.001) and bone cement leakages (OR = 2.05, 95% CI 1.40–3.00, P < 0.001) increased the risk of SVCF. The results of subgroup analysis showed the occurrence of re-fracture was significantly associated with gender (P = 0.002), age (P = 0.001) and BMD (P < 0.001) in Eastern Asia. Compared with the unfractured group, anterior-to-posterior vertebral body height ratio (AP ratio, WMD = 0.06, 95%CI 0.00–0.12, P = 0.037) and visual analog scale score (VAS, WMD = 0.62, 95%CI 0.09–1.15, P = 0.022) were higher in the refracture group, and kyphotic angle correction ratio (Cobb ratio, WMD = − 0.72, 95%CI − 1.26–0.18, P = 0.008) was smaller in Eastern Asia. In addition, anti-osteoporosis treatment (OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.27–0.60, P < 0.001) could be a protective factor.

Conclusion

The main factors associated with re-fracture after PVP/PKP are sex, age, bone mineral density, AP ratio, Cobb ratio, VAS score, bone cement leakage and anti-osteoporosis treatment, especially in Eastern Asia.

Risk factors of new vertebral compression fracture after percutaneous vertebroplasty or percutaneous kyphoplasty

BACKGROUND

New vertebral compression fracture (VCF) may occur in patients who underwent percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) or percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF). However, the risk factors of new VCF remain controversial. The research aimed to analyze the risk factors of new VCF after PVP or PKP.

METHODS

From August 2019 to March 2021, we retrospectively analyzed the patients who underwent PVP or PKP for OVCF at our institution. Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), smoking, drinking, hypertension, diabetes, fracture location, surgical method, Hounsfield unit (HU) value, preoperative degree of anterior vertebral compression (DAVC), bisphosphonates, bone cement volume, bone cement leakage, and cement distribution were collected. The risk factors were obtained by univariate and multivariate analysis of the data.

RESULTS

A total of 247 patients were included in the study. There were 23 patients (9.3%) with new VCF after PVP or PKP. Univariate analysis showed that age (p < 0.001), BMI (p = 0.002), fracture location (p = 0.030), and a low HU value (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with new VCF after PVP or PKP. A low HU value was an independent risk factor for new VCF after PVP or PKP obtained by multivariate regression analysis (OR = 0.963; 95% CI, 0.943-0.984, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, a low HU value was an independent risk factor of new VCF after PVP or PKP.

Correlation of Sagittal Imbalance and Recollapse after Percutaneous Vertebroplasty for Thoracolumbar Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture: A Multivariate Study of Risk Factors

Study Design

A retrospective case control study.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the clinical significance of sagittal balance for predicting and managing the recollapse of cemented vertebra following percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in patients with thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF).

Overview of Literature

Recently, the recollapse of cemented vertebra following PVP for OVF has been reported. Although the risk factors for recollapse have been determined, the association between sagittal spinopelvic parameters and sagittal imbalance with recollapse has not been established.

Methods

Ambulatory patients who underwent single-level PVP for thoracolumbar OVF with a follow-up of at least 24 months were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the presence of symptomatic recollapse at the cemented vertebra: (1) recollapsed (RC) group and (2) noncollapsed (NC) group. The patient characteristics and radiographic measurements associated with sagittal imbalance were analyzed at each follow-up visit.

Results

Overall, 134 patients (RC group, n=28; NC group, n=106) were enrolled. The mean fracture-free interval was 3.2 months (range, 1.2–25.1 months). The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis identified low bone mineral density (p=0.047), degree of dynamic mobility within the vertebra (p=0.025), and sagittal imbalance as significant risk factors for recollapse (p=0.013; odds ratio, 5.405). The progression of sagittal imbalance and thoracolumbar kyphosis (T10–L2) was more significant in the RC and sagittal imbalance groups than in the NC group (both p=0.000).

Conclusions

Sagittal imbalance, lower bone mineral density, and dynamic mobility within the vertebra are associated with the recollapse of cemented vertebrae following PVP. Sagittal imbalance, rather than local kyphosis or thoracolumbar kyphosis, is particularly significant in that it results in more progressive collapse and sagittal deformity and is accompanied by substantial back pain and neurological deficits. Therefore, a stricter and more active management, including anti-osteoporosis medication, is required for the treatment of OVF with sagittal imbalance of the spine.

Can paraspinal muscle degeneration be a reason for refractures after percutaneous kyphoplasty? A magnetic resonance imaging observation

Background

Vertebral augmentation (VA) techniques are used to treat acute osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). However, the incidence of recurrent vertebral fractures after VA is controversial. Various factors have been discussed in the literature, but no convincing study on the quality of paraspinal muscles has been reported. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the changes in paraspinal muscles and discuss the relationship between paraspinal muscle degeneration and vertebral refractures after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in patients who underwent PKP for an initial OVCF between July 2017 and August 2018. Patients were followed up and categorized in the refractured or non-refractured group. A final magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and a preoperative MRI scan were used to determine the measurements. The paraspinal muscles at the mid-height level of the initial fractured vertebral body were measured using regions of interest (ROIs), including the cross-sectional area (CSA) and signal intensity (SI). The changes in the observed data were compared between the groups using rank-sum tests.

Results

Overall, 92 patients were enrolled in the study; 33 of them sustained vertebral refractures during the follow-up and the other 59 patients did not. There were no significant differences in terms of sex, age, preoperative bone mineral density, and body mass index between the groups (all, P > 0.05). The refractured group had a significantly higher decrease in the ROI-CSA and CSA/SI, and a higher increase in ROI-SI, compared with the preoperative data (all, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The quality of paraspinal muscles significantly decreased in patients with new OVCFs after PKP. This brings a new perspective to the study of postoperative recurrent fractures; patients and physicians need to pay more attention to the efficacy of bed rest and bracing.

Risk of New Fractures in Vertebroplasty for Multiple Myeloma. A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

Vertebroplasty is a percutaneous minimally invasive procedure indicated for vertebral collapse pain treatment. Among the known complications of the procedure is the augmented risk of new vertebral fractures. There are no specific studies in this patient population describing the risk of new vertebral fractures after vertebroplasty. This study analyzed risk factors associated with new vertebral fractures after vertebroplasty in patients with multiple myeloma.

METHODS

Observational retrospective study in patients with multiple myeloma. The data collection took place from January 1, 2010, to December 30, 2017, at the National Cancer Institute. Clinical data and procedural variables such as cement volume, cement leaks, fracture level, number of treated vertebrae, pedicular disease, and cement distribution pattern, with two years follow-up, were analyzed with the Wilcoxon test, and a logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors related to new vertebral fractures. A confidence interval of 95% was used for analysis.

RESULTS

At one-year follow-up, 30% of fractures were reported after vertebroplasty, most of them at low thoracic and lumbar level (50% adjacent level). Vertebroplasty was most commonly performed at the thoracolumbar and lumbar area. We demonstrated a 70.7% median numerical rating scale reduction at one-year follow-up; a significant decrease in opioid consumption occurred only during the first month.

CONCLUSIONS

Pedicle involvement, disc leakage, cement volume, thoracolumbar and lumbar level, and number of treated vertebrae by intervention are important risk factors when performing vertebroplasty. Prospective randomized studies are needed to evaluate these factors in this specific population.

Vertebral augmentation reduces the 12-month mortality and morbidity in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the 12-month all-cause mortality and morbidity in patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) undergoing vertebroplasty/balloon kyphoplasty (VP/BKP) versus non-surgical management (NSM).

METHODS

Following a Medline and EMBASE search for English language articles published from 2010 to 2019, 19 studies reporting on mortality and morbidity after VP/BKP in patients with OVCFs were selected. The 12-month timeline was set due to the largest amount of data availability at such time interval. Estimates for each study were reported as odds ratios (OR) along with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and p values. Fixed or random-effects meta-analyses were performed. All tests were based on a two-sided significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS

Pooled OR across 5 studies favored VP/BKP over NSM in terms of 12-month all-cause mortality (OR: 0.81 [95% CI: 0.46-1.42]; p = .46). Pooled OR across 11 studies favored VP/BKP over NSM in terms of 12-month all-cause morbidity (OR: 0.64 [95% CI: 0.31-1.30]; p = .25). Sub-analysis of data dealing with 12-month infective morbidity from any origin confirmed the benefit of VP/BKP over NSM (OR: 0.23 [95% CI, 0.02-2.54]; p = .23).

CONCLUSION

Compared to NSM, VP/BKP reduces the 12-month risk of all-cause mortality and morbidity by 19% and 36%, respectively. Moreover, VP/BKP reduces by 77% the 12-month risk of infection from any origin.

KEY POINTS

• Compared to non-surgical management, vertebral augmentation reduces the 12-month risk of all-cause mortality by 19% and all-cause morbidity by 36%. • Vertebral augmentation reduces the 12-month risk of infection morbidity from any origin by 77%.

Cement Augmented Anterior Reconstruction and Decompression without Posterior Instrumentation: A Less Invasive Surgical Option for Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Fracture with Cord Compression

Objective

We investigated the clinical and radiological outcomes of a cement augmented anterior reconstruction and decompression without pedicle screw fixation in patients with osteoporotic thoracolumbar vertebral fracture with myelopathy.

Methods

There were 2 male and 6 female patients with thoracolumbar fracture and myelopathy included in the study. The mean follow-up period was more than 1 years. The anterolateral decompression and cement augmented anterior reconstruction with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was performed. Demographic data, clinical outcomes, perioperative parameters and radiologic parameter were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

The symptoms due to myelopathy were improved in all patients. The preoperative median visual analog scale score for lower back and leg were 8.5 that improved 4.25 and 3 at last follow up. The preoperative function state showed a median Oswestry Disability Index score 61.5 that improved 33. After surgery, preoperative encroachment of the spinal canal (5.12 mm, 37%) was disappeared. The median height of fractured vertebral body significantly increased from 7.83 to 12.63 mm. At the last follow-up point, the median height was 9.91 mm. The median kyphotic deformity was improved from 22.12° to 14.31°. At the final follow-up, the improvement was preserved (median value: 15.03). The acute complication according to PMMA such as leakage and embolization was none, but adjacent compression fracture as late complication according to cement augmentation was. One patient developed surgical site infection.

Conclusion

On the basis of the preliminary results, we considered that anterolateral decompression and PMMA augmentation might be an optimal method for treating osteoporotic fracture with myelopathy in elderly patients or those with multiple medical comorbidities.

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.

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.

The Prognostic Significance of Pedicle Enhancement from Contrast-enhanced MRI for the Further Collapse in Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective observational study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic significance of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detecting pedicle enhancement and predicting future collapse in patients with acute benign osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Traditional morphological classification regarding compression versus burst fractures cannot accurately anticipate the prognosis of further collapse. Identifying subgroups with a higher risk for further collapse may be beneficial in determining the treatment modality, which should be decided immediately after the injury.

METHODS

One hundred fourteen patients with benign OVCFs who, at the onset, underwent contrast-enhanced spine MRI between 2003 and 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were recruited on the basis of predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The primary outcome was the compression progression rate; other potential variables included demographic and clinical characteristics, initial compression rates, and kyphotic angles. In addition, other structural abnormalities on MRI were assessed. The compression progression rates were compared according to pedicle enhancement, and the prognostic significance of pedicle enhancement for further collapse were analyzed.

RESULTS

Further compression progression rates were significantly higher in the pedicle-enhanced (PE) group than in the nonenhanced (NE) group. Multivariate logistic analysis revealed that pedicle enhancement may be associated with further compression progression ≥10%. The vertebral augmentation (VAG) protective effect against collapse was only significant within the PE group, while bone densitometry and patients' mobility were significant only within the NE group. The log-rank test revealed a statistically significant difference in the rates of further collapse ≥10% during the 1 year between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Sign of pedicle enhancement is a potential risk factor for further compression progression. Contrast-enhanced MRI should be performed at the onset to better determine the future risk of collapse and to choose a better treatment modality for benign OVCF patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures: What Are the Latest Data?

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures frequently result in significant morbidity and health care resource use. For patients with severe and disabling pain, vertebral augmentation (vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty) is often considered. Although vertebroplasty was introduced >30 years ago, there are conflicting opinions regarding the role of these procedures in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. This review article updates clinicians on the published prospective randomized controlled data, including the most recent positive trials that followed initial negative trials in 2009. Analysis of multiple national claim datasets has also provided further insight into the utility of these procedures. Finally, we considered the recent recommendations of national organizations and medical societies that advise on the use of vertebral augmentation procedures for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.