Vertebral compression fracture treated with stentoplasty: clinical and radiographic results of 42 cases with one year of follow-up

Vertebral compression fractures are very common and have a significant medico-economic impact.Purpose. The purpose of this study is to present the clinical and radiographic results achieved with stentoplasty or vertebral body stenting (VBS) in the treatment of vertebral compression fractures.Method. This retrospective study involves 50 patients with one year follow-up. The clinical results were evaluated based on pain and the degree of functional impairment. The study also provides information on length of hospital stay and time to return to work. The radiological results were evaluated based on the quality of the reduction.Results. Both clinical and radiographic results are excellent. The average length of absence from work is significantly shorter than when this type of fracture is conservatively managed. Furthermore, there is no loss of reduction over time.Conclusion. We are satisfied with this technique. The achieved results have prompted us to propose stentoplasty rather than conservative management to an increasing number of patients. The main benefits of VBS are: significant, immediate and durable pain relief, earlier resumption of normal activities than with conservative management, and good, permanent reduction of vertebral fractures.