Radiofrequency Kyphoplasty - An Innovative Method of Treating Osteoporotic Vertebral Body Compression Fractures

Journal für Mineralstoffwechsel & Muskuloskelettale Erkrankungen 2011; 18 (Supplementum 1): 13-17

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Osteoporotic vertebral body fractures are encountered increasingly often. Cement augmentation using vertebroplasty or balloon kyphoplasty are standardised and established procedures. However, the optimal cement viscosity at the time of cement augmentation has not yet been satisfactory resolved for either method. In other words, the time point of cement application is left to the surgeon’s subjective estimation. Early application of cement may cause cement leakage whereas late application may cause incomplete filling of the vertebral body. Radiofrequency kyphoplasty is a recently developed augmentation system that enables the surgeon to exert control when creating the cavity, as well as aids him in the placement and application of cement. Cement is applied by remote control and thus uniformly retains its properties. The method is presented in the following.