VERTEBROPLASTY - A TREATMENT MODALITY IN OSTEOPOROTIC VETERBRAL FRACTURES

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to explore how effective vertebroplasty is in treating painful osteoporotic vertebral fractures from a clinical perspective.

Materials & Methods: We included 20 patients who had osteoporotic compression fractures and underwent vertebroplasty. Before the procedure, we assessed their pain using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and evaluated their disability with the Oswestry Disability Score (ODS). These measurements helped us compare their functional outcomes after surgery. The average follow-up period was 12 months, with some patients followed for as long as 16 months and others for a minimum of 3 months.

Observations & Results :We analyzed the changes in VAS and ODS scores before and after the procedure at several time points: immediately after surgery, and at one month, three months, six months, and twelve months postoperatively. The results showed a significant reduction in pain, with p-values below 0.005 at all follow-up intervals. This indicates that patients experienced meaningful pain relief and improved function right after the procedure, and these benefits were maintained throughout the 12 months.

Conclusion: Vertebroplasty appears to be a promising treatment for osteoporotic compression fractures. It not only helps patients regain mobility quickly but also significantly reduces the number of visits to the doctor for pain management. This technique represents a valuable option for effectively managing these types of fractures.