Abstract:

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of unilateral percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) performed in treatment-resistant patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Material and Methods: The study sample consisted of eight patients with painful osteoporotic compression fractures who did not respond to conservative treatment methods. However, the respective clinical results were evaluated based on radiological findings pertaining to 18 operated vertebrae of the said eight patients. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores were recorded before the procedure and at the 1st-month and 6th-month follow-up visits. Vertebral angle (VA), and anterior height (AH), central height (CH) and posterior height (PH) of the superior and inferior endplates of the vertebrae were measured before the procedure and at the 6th-month follow-up using direct radiography. Results: Mean VAS and ODI scores decreased 70.5% and 72%, respectively, over a 6-month period. The mean vertebral height increased after kyphoplasty, as reflected by a 3.15% increase in AH, 24.6% increase in CH and 0.99% increase in PH. Additionally, VA was found to have increased by 13.6%. Conclusion: The results of this study featuring a small patient population indicated that unilateral balloon PKP can be used safely and effectively to achieve earlier mobilization with faster pain relief and fewer complications.

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