Reconstruction of vertebral body from posterior approach for delayed paralysis due to osteoporotic vertebral collapse - Insertion of HA (hydroxyapatite) spacer -

Abstract

We report a method we have used to reconstruct a collapsed vertebral body by posterior insertion of an HA (hydroxyapatite) spacer. We performed this procedure in 26 patients diagnosed with delayed neurologic paralysis since 6/2013. The average age at surgery was 75.7 years. The methods are as follows,

A: Complete resection of the vertebral body and insertion of HA spacer.

B: Resection of only the upper endplate and intervertebral disk, then fusion with the adjacent vertebral body.

C: Leave upper and lower endplates intact, and insert HA spacer into the vertebral body for reconstruction (Insertion of HA spacer between both endplates).

All cases recovered from back pain and weakness of lower extremities. The average correction loss of local kyphosis was 5.0° (range, 1°-15°). Type C allows minimally invasive reconstruction of a collapsed vertebral body without removing vertebral discs. The short-term outcomes indicate that this technique is effective.