Trends in Utilization of Vertebroplasty vs. Kyphoplasty: 12-Year Longitudinal Analysis

Purpose: Vertebroplasty (VP) and kyphoplasty (KP) are minimally invasive procedures for treating vertebral compression fractures. While KP yields better vertebral height restoration and kyphotic angle reduction than VP, it is more expensive {1}. The present study aims to compare utilization, reimbursement, and patient demographics between VP and KP over time.

Materials and Methods: The PearlDiver (PearlDiver Technologies, Colorado Springs, CO) database was queried for patients receiving VP or KP from January 2010 to October 2022. Comparative analyses were performed for procedure volume, reimbursement, and patient demographics.

Results: In total, 56,520 VP and 225,974 KP patients were identified. VP procedure volume declined 56% from 2010 (n = 7,040) to 2021 (n = 3,107). KP procedure volume was consistently higher, with no clear trend (annual mean: 18,815 ± 2,053). Average reimbursement increased by 211% for VP and 269% for KP, with KP costing $1,279.55 more on average. Significant differences were found in comorbidities, as well as region, insurance type, service location, and provider specialty distributions. Multilevel procedures were performed in 23.8% of VP and 25.2% of KP patients. (all p< 0.001)

Conclusion: KP procedure counts and reimbursements are consistently higher than VP, with VP procedure volume declining over time. VP and KP patients differ significantly in demographics and procedure attributes. These findings may be indicative of clinical and economic factors guiding the selection process between VP and KP.