Abstract
Introduction
The principle symptoms in multiple myeloma result from bone destruction, especially the spine. Kyphoplasty is a new technique that involves the introduction of inflatable bone tamps (IBT) into the vertebral body. The purpose of the IBT is to restore the vertebral body back toward its original height, while creating a cavity that can be filled with highly viscous bone cement. The aim was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcome of kyphoplasty in the treatment of osteolytic vertebral compression fractures resulting from multiple myeloma.
Material and Methods
10 (Ten) patients underwent consecutive kyphoplasty procedures in 13 vertebrae for osteolytic vertebral compression fractures resulting from multiple myeloma. Cement leakage and any complications were recorded. Early objective analysis was made by comparing preoperative and latest VAS and ODI scores. Height restoration was estimated by measuring vertebral height on lateral radiographs.
Results
The mean age of patients was 62years, mean duration of symptoms was 8 months, and mean follow-up was 7.4 (range 6–12) months. There were no major complications related directly to use of this technique. On average, 40% of height lost at the time of fracture was restored. Asymptomatic cement leakage occurred at one level in one patient. Significant improvement in VAS and ODI scores were observed.
Conclusion
Kyphoplasty was efficacious in the treatment of osteolytic vertebral compression fractures resulting from multiple myeloma. Kyphoplasty is associated with early clinical improvement of pain and function as well as some restoration of vertebral body height.