Anterior Protrusion of Hydroxyapatite Blocks During Vertebroplasty for Thoracic Burst Fractures: A Case Report

Research on complications necessitating reoperation following vertebroplasty related to hydroxyapatite (HA) blocks is limited. We present the case of a 25-year-old woman who underwent posterior fixation and vertebroplasty using HA blocks for a T12 burst fracture. Postoperative computed tomography revealed anterior protrusion of some blocks, with consequent compression of the descending aorta. We removed the protruded blocks via a transthoracic approach and observed no aortic injuries. Although HA blocks are considered safe for vertebroplasty, surgeons should be aware of the risk of anterior protrusion and potential aortic injury.