Percutaneous vertebroplasty in vertebral crush fractures – a descriptive analysis

Introduction: Efficacy of Vertebroplasty (VP) in acute vertebral crush fractures has been questioned. We support that VP is an effective treatment in selected patients.

Method: Retrospective study of 47 (37 female) patients admitted to a private hospital between 2006 to 2011 with pain due to acute vertebral crush fractures and received VP were interviewed by phone following reviewing of notes.

Results: Forty seven (65-90y) were of two distinct populations, younger group was 67 to 70y. Duration of pain was 9.5 days (range 2-21 days). Hospital length of stay (LOS) was 2-33 days. Total of 31 (66%), females 23, reported VP as satisfactory (good, very good, excellent). All had VP within 15 days of admission. Twenty two (71%) of 31 were independent prior to the back injury. Fifteen (48%) were over 85y (very elderly) and 15 (48%) were between 70 - 85y. Very elderly (5 males, 10 females) reported a favourable outcome and their LOS was 14-33 days. Twenty-two of the elderly (total 25) had LOS greater than 7 days and reported a favourable outcome. Two reported no effect.

Younger patients (7) were independent in daily activities. Five reported the procedure as satisfactory and were discharged within two weeks.

LOS increased with age. Majority (98%) received either rehabilitation (80%) or returned home (17%). Significant associations were noted in relation to younger age, post procedure pain perception, and premorbid independence with early discharge (CI 95%).

Conclusion: VP is a safe and a useful treatment where conservative management has failed.