Cement augmentation of pedicle screw fixation in spine surgery among patients with osteoporosis: a systematic review

Polymethylmethacrylate-augmented screw fixation is regarded to be an effective technique however many complications can occur after augmented screw fixation due to a leakage of cement. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence supporting the use of cement expansion of pedicle screw obsession in spine surgery among osteoporotic patients, its efficacy and the associated complications. An electronic search in MEDLINE was conducted using a search strategy of related keywords and the reference lists of the resultant articles were screened for relevant articles. Studies included in the review met the predetermined inclusion criteria of studies which were clinical trials published in English. The evidence supported an application of cement augmented screw fixation since it increased the strength of the placed screws in the osteoporotic bone. It decreased the degree of spondylolisthesis, improved the quality of life, contributed to the protection against re-collapse and reduce back pain and spinal dysfunction in osteoporotic patients.