Kyphoplasty experience in an elderly

Abstract

Objective: Vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis are seen frequently. Osteoporotic compression fractures can cause severe pain, limitation of physical activities and impairment of quality of life. Kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive procedure, could be effective in many cases and can provide fast pain relief.

Case: A patient with a history of falling from a height of 8 months duration visited our pain clinic. Opioids and anti-inflammatory analgesics were administered together with physical therapy and facet joint injections with no improvement. Radiological examination of the patient showed collapse fracture of L2 and L4 vertebrae on top of severe osteoporosis. Kyphoplasty was performed at the level of L2 vertebrae followed by 50% relieve in her pain (VAS score reduction from 8 to 3) and hence she was capable to resume her daily activities.

Conclusion: Percutaneous balloon kyphoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of elder patient with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.