Acta neurochirurgica
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Acta neurochirurgica · Feb 2012
Comparative StudyCement leakage as a possible complication of balloon kyphoplasty--is there a difference between osteoporotic compression fractures (AO type A1) and incomplete burst fractures (AO type A3.1)?
Besides the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures of AO type A1, balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) is seen as a therapeutic option even in the treatment of incomplete osteoporotic burst fractures (AO type A3.1). However, due to involvement of the posterior vertebral body wall, the risk of cement leakages is considered to be higher. This study focuses on the frequency and pattern of cement leakages in AO type A3.1 fractures compared with osteoporotic compression fractures (AO type A1). ⋯ Cement leakages remain a problem in BKP. Although there was no significant difference between AO type A3.1 and all A1 fractures, subgroup analysis revealed a statistically significant higher risk of cement extrusions in A3.1 compared to A1.1 fractures. None of the affected patients showed new neurological deficits due to cement extravasations. Still, balloon kyphoplasty can be considered a safe procedure, even in the treatment of painful osteoporotic vertebral fractures of AO type A3.1.
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Acta neurochirurgica · Feb 2012
Case ReportsSurgical treatment of spinal intradural carcinoma metastases.
Intradural metastases of nonneurogenic origin represent an extremely rare manifestation of systemic cancer. The respective literature is very scarce. ⋯ Intradural metastases are associated with limited survival time. Accordingly, the aim of surgery is strictly palliative. The majority of patients benefit with respect to neurological deficit/pain (67%) independent of the extent of resection. Thus, decompressive surgery is recommended to increase the quality of life.