Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment of vertebral burst fractures with kyphoplasty. This minimal-invasive technique has been established for the treatment of osteoporotic compression fractures. The value for the treatment of burst fractures is still under research.

Materials and Methods: Between 2003 and 2006, 31 patients presenting a traumatic vertebral burst fracture Magerl Type A3 of the thoraco-lumbar junction were treated with balloon kyphoplasty. All had a normal neurological examination. Assessment of the patients outcome included subjective evaluation of pain (VAS), evaluation of the clinical function (Oswestry-Score), SF-36 Medical Outcome Survey and radiologic evaluation.

Results: The patients experienced an early pain relief and early mobilisation. Complications such as constriction of the spinal channel were not observed. The morphology of the vertebral body showed minor correction of the malposition.

Conclusion: Kyphoplasty represents an efficient and minimal-invasive alternative for the treatment of burst fractures of the thoraco-lumbar junction. This technique allows an early return to daily activities with almost pain relief and with a low incidence of complications.