Purpose of Technology: Percutaneous vertebroplasty (VP) for the treatment of osteoporotic fractures is the injection of bone cement into the affected vertebrae with the intent of restoring structural integrity and preventing further bone collapse. Clinical goals include reduction of pain, and improvement of function and quality of life.
Controversy: There is a history of conflicting evidence regarding the comparative efficacy of VP and whether it is more effective than sham and/or conservative treatment (CTx). Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggested that VP and sham procedures did not differ for pain relief in patients with painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs). In contrast, several RCTs suggested that VP was more effective than CTx. Large, long-term RCTs with information regarding patient selection criteria are needed to more definitively determine the comparative efficacy of VP.
Relevant Questions:
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Is VP effective for stabilizing osteoporotic vertebral fractures as measured by reduction of pain and disability, and improvement of quality of life?
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Is VP safe for patients with osteoporotic vertebral fractures?
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How does VP compare with sham, CTx, or invasive treatments for treatment of osteoporotic vertebral fractures?
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Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for VP?
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