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 viaa 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.