The Therapeutic Efficacy Of PKP In Patients With Pathological Fractures Of The Thoracic And Lumbar Spine Caused By Malignant Tumour

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of percutaneous kyphoplasty in patients with pathological fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine caused by malignant tumour.Material and Methods: In this retrospective study, from January 2012 to December 2014, 24 patients of pathological fractures in the thoracic and lumbar spine caused by malignant tumour were treated by percutaneous kyphoplasty(PKP). In the retrospective 3-month follow-up, Visual Analog Scale(VAS) and Oswestry Disability Score were documented. Radiographs were performed pre and postoperatively at 1 day, 7 day, and 3 months. Vertebral height and kyphotic deformity were measured to assess restoration of the sagittal alignment. Also we recorded the complication of the surgery. Comparison of data was analysed using the Mann-Whitney tests.Results: We performed PKP for 24 patients(male 12, female 12) with 46 affected vertebral bodies. Average age was 61.13±14.2 years. The median pain scores(VAS) decreased significantly(P<0.05) from pre to posttreatment, as did the Oswestry Disability Scores(P<0.05). A gain in height restoration and a reduction of the postoperative kyphotic angle were seen post-operatively and at 3 months. Further kyphotic deformity was prevented. Polymethyl methacrylate(PMMA) cement leakage was detected in 11 vertebral bodies(23.4%), but did not have any clinical relevance.Conclusion: Percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty is a safe, effective, minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of pathological vertebral fractures caused by malignant tumour. It provides immediate and long-term pain relief, stabilization of pathological vertebral fractures, improvement in functional ability.