The Role of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty in Traumatic Fractures of the Thoracolumbar Spine

Background: Percutan vertebroplasty (PVP) is a well known minimally invasive method: main indications are vertebral compression fractures, especially of osteoporotic origin. In the last few years PVP is also gained popularity in the treatment of vertebral body instability caused by infiltrative tumor or trauma.
Methods: The author used the method of PVP in treatment of 15 patients with traumatic vertebral fracture. The indication for the surgery were: 1. anterior column traumatic vertebral fractures, 2. preserved posterior wall (towards spinal canal), 3. local pain.
Results: Comparing pre- and postoperative pain, there was a significant improvement on visual analogue scale (VAS).
Conclusion: VP is a feasible method in treating in certain types of traumatic vertebral fractures by abolishing pain soon, superseding the need for spine-stabilizing surgery, facilitating the process of heeling, load ability and return to work, lowering the costs of treatment. PVP can be done as a one-day surgery.

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