Overcorrection of fractured vertebrae increases the incidence of adjacent fractures after balloon kyphoplasty: A retrospective study

Purpose: To investigate whether the correction amount by balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) is associated with the incidence of adjacent vertebral fractures (AVF). Methods: Data from 61 patients without and 25 patients with AVF were analyzed. A linear regression model was used between vertebral instability and corrected angle or height to divide patients into the overcorrection and undercorrection groups. Results: Vertebral fractures overcorrected for instability led to a higher incidence rate of AVF [42.4% and 46.9% with overcorrection vs. 10.7% and 13.3% with undercorrection for angle and height, respectively]. Conclusions: Overcorrection of fractured vertebrae may associate with the increased incidence of AVF.