To compare safety, efficacy and long term stability between standard and augmented (with KIVA system) vertebroplasty in patients with extreme (split/incomplete burst or large osteonecrotic vertebral cavities) vertebral fractures.

During the last 42 months, we retrospectively compared 2 groups (15 patients each) suffering from painful extreme vertebral fracture treated with standard or augmented vertebroplasty. Group A underwent standard vertebroplasty. Group B underwent augmented vertebroplasty with implantation of a biocompatible peek cage (KIVA implant). Standard x rays and CT scans were performed during follow-up. Pain prior, the morning after and at the last follow-up (average follow-up 12 months) were compared by means of a numeric visual scale (NVS) questionnaire. Cement or implant migration were recorded....

Group A: mean pain value of 8.86±0.99 prior and 2.27±3.35 NVS units post treatment, with a mean decrease of 6.60±3.07 NVS units (p<0.001); progress of vertebral body damage, widening of fracture line orPMMA migration, subsequent vertebral fracture) in 3/15 patients (20%) with 2/15 being surgically operated (13.3%). Group B: mean pain value of 8.73±1.03 prior and 1.40±1.40 NVS units post treatment, with a mean decrease of 7.33±1.45 NVS units (p<0.001); no implant change or migration. Pain reduction difference between two Groups was not statistically significant...

Both standard and augmented vertebroplasty seem to reduce pain in patients with extreme vertebral fractures. Preliminary results show potential tendency for widening of fracture line orPMMA migration and subsequent vertebral fracture in the vertebroplasty Group. In augmented vertebroplasty, the implant seems to function as internal cast providing mechanical and structural support and height restoration.

Maria Tsitskari MD, PhD Interventional Radiologist 2nd Radiololgy Dpt University General Hospital "ATTIKON" Alexis Kelekis MD, PhD, MSc, EBIR Asc. Professor of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology 2nd Radiology Dpt, University General Hospital "ATTIKON" Addr.: 1 Rimini str, 12462 Haidari/Athens, Greece Tel.: +30 210 5831806 Fax: +30 2105326418 E mail:[email protected]

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