Vertebral Augmentation Techniques: Atlas of Interventional Pain Management Series - Chapter 10: Outcome measurement for vertebral augmentation

The prevalence of spine fractures in the United States was estimated to be 11% in people 70 to 79 years old and 18% in those over 80 years of age, leading to physical disability and diminished quality of life. Vertebral augmentation is a minimally invasive procedure that has become an increasingly favorable treatment option. Outcome measurement is a cornerstone component of these procedures, as it aids in improving efficacy and efficiency and promoting the adoption of best practices and further research. Prior to vertebral augmentation, it is important to obtain a careful history of both the patient and the pain, prior procedures, and pharmacological treatments. Furthermore, assessment of both physical function and quality of life pre- and post-treatment is vital for determining the outcome of the procedure. There are multiple tools available to clinicians that can aid in assessing the patient’s pain, quality of life, physical limitations, and psychological impact of the disease. Some of the most commonly used instruments are summarized in this chapter and are grouped by pain, disability, and quality of life. It is important to recognize that there is no single instrument that can be utilized to evaluate results following an osteoporotic vertebral fracture intervention. A combination of surveys building an overall health assessment picture is a better approach.