[Value of routine transpedicular biopsies in kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty for vertebral compression fractures : A survey among 250 spine surgeons].

Background: Transpedicular cement augmentation is an established therapeutic option in the treatment of pathologic compression fractures of the spine. In addition to osteoporosis, underlying metastatic diseases or, more rarely, a primary bone tumor are recurrent causes of vertebral compression fractures without adequate trauma.

Objective: To obtain a current opinion among spine surgeons in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria on the value of transpedicular biopsy during kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty of vertebral body fractures.

Closed-suction drainage in thoracolumbar spinal surgery-clinical routine without evidence? a systematic review.

Purpose: The considered benefit of surgical drain use after spinal surgery is to prevent local accumulation of a haematoma by decompressing the closed space in the approach of the surgical site. In this context, the aim of the present systematic review was to prove the benefit of the routine use of closed-suction drains.

Methods: We conducted a comprehensive systematic review of the literature according to the Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) checklist and algorithm.