Asked by MM
Two different percutaneous minimally invasive vertebral augmentation methods for cement application into the vertebral body for the management of symptomatic compression fractures without neurological impairment have been developed, namely vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.
Pain reduction with the use of these percutaneous vertebral augmentation techniques has been attributed to the mechanical effects of the reconstruction and stabilization of the endplates and vertebral body segment by stiffening of the cement, and to the therapeutic effect of the exothermic reaction of the cement, assuming that the pain originates from intraosseous nerve endings.
Absolute contraindication to the use of cementoplasty techniques include neurological damage, and fracture of the posterior wall of the vertebra (with potential extravasation of cement and neurological damage).
| Kyphoplasty | Vertebroplasty |
|---|---|
| Cement is injected under low pressure (cement is more viscous) | Cement is injected under high pressure (cement is less viscous) |
| Greater potential to reverse vertebral deformity | No potential to reverse vertebral deformity |
| Bone tamp used to increase space for cement | No bone tamp involved |
| Limited potential risk of extravasation of cement | Greater potential risk of extravasation of cement |
| General anesthesia (costlier) | Conscious sedation (cheaper) |
