Introduction:

Vertebral compression fractures have been treated using internal bone cement, using techniques such as kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty. However, the potential adverse effects are known, mainly the leakage of cement to the surrounding tissues and, in most cases, the consequent affection at the vertebral level. Achieving adequate reduction of the fracture is important since it directly influence on the quality of life of patients.

Objective:

To describe the application, for the first time, of SpineJack® expandable intramedullary implant as a method for treating vertebral compression fractures.

Case report:

We report a 65-year-old female patient who suffered trauma to her lumbar spine at L1 level, a burst-type fracture, who, in June 2016, underwent percutaneous transpedicular access with fluoroscopic guidance with the purpose of inserting SpineJack® device into her vertebral body. Specially designed implant expanders were used for this device, which opened the ends and deployed the central titanium component. This facilitated the injection of polymethylmethacrylate that eventually enveloped the implants, ensuring stabilization of the fracture.

Results:

The control tomography allowed to observe adequate reduction of the central decline of the L1 vertebra of this patient and the recovery of the vertebral body height with values similar to those reported by other researchers who have worked with this method in other countries.

Conclusions:

The anatomy-functional capacity of the fractured vertebra, as well as the clinical improvement of this patient, and her quality of life were remarkable. No complications were observed. Following up the use of this device in other patients in Ecuador will allow to deepen its evaluation.

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