Percutaneous vertebroplasty using CT fluoroscopy

Full text: Percutaneous vertebroplasty is a radiologically guided therapeutic procedure gaining increasing popularity in Australia. In our institution we use CT fluoroscopy to guide needle placement. The main indication is in the symptomatic management of refractory back pain in acute osteoporotic crush fractures. Other indications are for the treatment of symptomatic haemangiomas and vertebral malignancies. The technique used at our institution with CT fluoroscopy is described in detail. Criteria for patient selection is given. Complications experienced by us as well as those described in the literature are discussed. Our first seven patients all experienced significant pain relief. This correlates well with published studies. The procedure could be performed as an outpatient.Tips on performing the procedure are given. Percutaneous vertebroplasty using CT fluoroscopy is an option for the treatment of refractory back pain due to acute osteoporotic crush fractures. It is a relatively safe procedure and can be performed as an outpatient. Up to four vertebrae at a time have been injected in one sitting in the literature. Other applications for vertebroplasty are being studied at the present time and may find clinical use in the future. Copyright (2002) Blackwell Science Pty Ltd