Vertebroplasty Using Allograft Bone Chips with Posterior Instrumented Fusion in the Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures with Neurological Deficits

Introduction: In general, osteoporotic vertebral fractures with neurological deficits require surgery. However, the ideal surgical method remains controversial. We evaluated the efficacy of combining posterior instrumented fusion and vertebroplasty using allograft bone chips. Methods: Twelve patients (five men, seven women; age 68-84 years, mean age 75.9 years) with osteoporotic vertebral fractures with neurological deficits were reviewed retrospectively. They underwent posterior instrumented fusion and vertebroplasty, using allograft bone, at our institution between January 2007 and June 2016. We assessed the surgical results, radiologically and neurologically, after a mean follow-up of 37.3 months. Results: The mean local kyphosis angle was 10 degrees before surgery, -3.3 degrees immediately after surgery, and 4.4 degrees at follow-up. The average spinal canal compromise was 26.9% before surgery and 19.5% at follow-up. All patients achieved bony fusion and none needed additional surgery. All patients improved by at least one grade on the modified Frankel grading system. Conclusions: Combining vertebroplasty, using allograft bone chips, and posterior instrumented fusion appears to be an effective option for osteoporotic vertebral fractures with neurological deficits.