Background
Balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical technique to treat spinal fractures. So far, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is applied as the first choice augmentation material. However, it is characterized by limited biocompatibility and a lack of osseous integration. Therefore, intensive research was performed to identify other cements based on biomaterials.
Study design
In this prospective clinical study, we investigated 23 patients with 29 vertebral body fractures over 2 years who were treated with a new bone cement based on calcium aluminate ceramic (Xeraspine©) by means of balloon kyphoplasty. Intraoperatively, height restoration of the body center of 4.8 mm and of the kyphosis angle by 4.6 ° was achieved. There was a significant pain relief. Complications specifically associated with the cement were re-fracture of the augmented vertebra (n = 7), new fracture in adjacent vertebral bodies (n = 2), and extrusion of cement (n = 7). Cement washout was not observed.
Conclusion
Routine use of the Xeraspine© cement is not currently recommended for kyphoplasty. Compared with PMMA, the biomechanical properties are worse. Moreover there is a higher re-fracture rate and subjectively worse intraoperative handling.