BACKGROUND: Kyphoplasty (KP) is a palliative treatment for patients with metastatic vertebral tumors. The distribution pattern of cement affects safety and efficacy. The distribution pattern of cement has not been previously reported for patients with metastatic vertebral tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: From January 2013 to December 2017, patients with metastatic vertebral tumors who met our criteria were divided into cement fusion (n=91) and separation (n=97) groups. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and middle vertebral height (MVH) were evaluated preoperatively, postoperatively, and 1 year after surgery. Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score, fluoroscopy time, operation time, cement volume, cement leakage, and vertebral fractures were recorded and evaluated.

RESULTS: Compared with the fusion group, the separation group had significantly different (P<0.001) operation time, fluoroscopy time, and cement volume. Compared with preoperative status, VAS and MVH were significantly improved 3 days postoperatively and 1 year postoperatively in both groups (P<0.001). The difference in cement leakage between the 2 groups (P<0.05) and in the number of adjacent vertebral fractures between the 2 groups (P<0.05) were significant.

CONCLUSIONS: The distribution patterns of the bone cement had a good analgesic effect and preventive effect on vertebral collapse. However, the separation of bone cement may be safer.

Keywords: Bone Cements, kyphoplasty, Palliative Care, Spine, Aged, 80 and over, Fractures, Compression, Neoplasms, operative time, Osteoporotic Fractures, Spinal Cord Neoplasms, Spinal Fractures, vertebroplasty