Hidden blood loss of percutaneous vertebroplasty in the treatment of spinal metastases of breast cancer

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate hidden blood loss (HBL) and to identify its possible risk factors after percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) in patients with spinal metastases from breast cancer.

Patients and methods: Between January 2020 and January 2024, a total of 54 female patients (mean age: 65.3±7.9 years, range, 47 to 79 years) with breast cancer and vertebral metastases who underwent PVP were retrospectively analyzed. Patient data were collected including demographic characteristics, oncological profiles, laboratory parameters, particularly pre- and postoperative hematocrit (Hct) levels, and clinical variables. The Sehat equation was employed to quantify HBL based on Hct alterations. To identify significant predictors of HBL, a multiple linear regression analysis of potential risk factors was carried out.

Results: The mean surgical time was 32.0±8.5 min. Cement leakage occurred in 44.4% of cases. The mean hemoglobin (Hb) loss and Hct loss were 0.9±0.4 g/dL and 2.8±0.6%, respectively. The mean HBL was 287.2±57.4 mL. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that HBL was positively correlated with bone metastasis (p=0.010), surgical time (p=0.009), number of punctures (p=0.036), cement leakage (p=0.026), Hct loss (p=0.020), and TBL (p<0.001), while it was negatively correlated with postoperative Hct (p=0.024).

Conclusion: Bone metastasis, surgical time, number of punctures, cement leakage, Hct loss, and TBL are independent risk factors for HBL. Therefore, HBL warrants clinical attention in patients with spinal metastases from breast cancer undergoing PVP, particularly those with these risk factors.