Der Chirurg; Zeitschrift für alle Gebiete der operativen Medizen
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Imaging of the spine is an essential prerequisite in the clinical workup of spine disease. Conventional radiography (CR) is still used as a basic diagnostic tool and enables an initial diagnosis to clarify symptomatology. ⋯ Nuclear medicine bone scans and positron emission tomography serve as screening studies and are an adjunct to morphologic radiological imaging. This review article summarizes the radiological and nuclear medicine imaging modalities and their diagnostic and therapeutic significance for diagnostic workup of common spinal disorders.
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Painful osteoporotic and malignant vertebral fractures are frequent causes of chronic back pain with negative consequences regarding immobility, quality of life, morbidity, mortality, and fracture incidence. The best currently available evidence-based treatment reduces vertebral fracture risk but does not totally prevent follow-up fractures. ⋯ In addition to internal stabilization of painful vertebral fractures, kyphoplasty seeks to restore lost vertebral height, which appears promising in acute and painful vertebral fractures. Available controlled prospective studies demonstrate long-term patient benefits in terms of pain reduction, mobility, and improved quality of life.