Prophylactic stabilization of vertebral body metastasis at risk of imminent fracture using balloon kyphoplasty.

Abstract

Case report. Presentation of the previously unreported technique of balloon kyphoplasty being used to prophylactically stabilize a vertebral body metastasis at risk of imminent fracture. Many patients with spinal metastases are not suitable for a total en bloc resection. Untreated these metastases may fracture, with the risk of cord compression. We present the case of a 53-year-old gentleman with an isolated T10 renal cell metastasis. This gentleman presented with back pain, and was deemed to be at risk of imminent fracture. The metastasis was prophylactically stabilized using balloon kyphoplasty. Lasting pain relief and spinal stability were achieved following treatment with balloon kyphoplasty. He remains pain free 14-months post treatment. This is the first reported case of balloon kyphoplasty being used to prophylactically stabilize a vertebral body containing a metastasis, achieving both mechanical stability and pain relief.