Vertebroplasty: For whom and when

Abstract

Vertebral compression fractures (VCF) are the most common type of fragility fracture, with about 1.4 million people affected annually, worldwide [1]. The risk of VCF increases with age, up to 25% in women and 18% in men by age 75 according to the European Vertebral Osteoporosis Study (EVOS) [2]. VCF can result in severe and disabling back pain, especially in elderly patients. Patients may experience significant morbidity and decreased quality of life, are at higher risk of chronic back pain and have increased mortality rates [3].