Complications
May occur with more severe compression fractures involving 2-column injury with retropulsion of bone into the canal. Computed tomography scanning is used to establish the diagnosis. Surgical decompression and stabilisation are indicated to prevent neurological deficit in this situation.
Both vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty can result in potentially fatal pulmonary emboli of bone cement, particularly if multiple levels are being treated.[1] In one study of a series of 65 procedures, emboli were noted on approximately 5% of chest x-rays. None of the detected emboli were symptomatic.[100]
With persisting osteoporosis, patients are at risk of further fragility fractures of the hip, vertebrae, and wrist.
May occur if there is progressive collapse increasing the degree of local kyphosis (>30°). If there is associated pain, then surgical stabilisation is required.
Trunk extension, mobility, and walking distance may be significantly decreased compared with the normal age-matched population.[99]
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