Vertebroplasty (PVP) is effective in the treatment of painful vertebral hemangiomas

Abstract

Purpose: We assessed the results of percutaneous vertebroplasty treatment of painful vertebral hemangiomas in 110 patients, with a three years follow-up.Patients and methods: 110 patients with painful vertebral hemangiomas were treated by percutaneous vertebroplasty. The patients were diagnosed by MRI and observed for 3 years after surgery. Visual Analog Scale was used to assess the level of pain.  Results: Pain significantly diminished in all patients, 90% were free of pain for three years after augmentation. In 10% some pain appeared after 1 year, but less intensive than before surgery. 3 years after vertebroplasty 90% of patients were free of pain. No complications of PVP were observed. In 3 patients extravertebral leakage was noted with no clinical symptoms.Conclusions: PVP is highly effective in the treatment of painful vertebral hemangiomas. The method is safe, produce minimal complications and eliminates, or highly reduces pain for a long time period