Spine metastases: thermal ablation and augmentation

Substantial advances in percutaneous minimally invasive musculoskeletal oncologic interventions including thermal ablation and vertebral augmentation offer a robust armamentarium for interventional radiologists for management of patients with spinal metastases. Such interventions have proved safe and effective in management of selected patients with vertebral metastases. Special attention to procedure techniques including choice of ablation modality, vertebral augmentation technique, and thermal protection is essential for improved patient outcomes. Familiarity with the described interventions and implementation of procedural safety measures will further enhance the role of radiologists in the management of patients with spinal metastases. This article provides a review of the most recent advances in thermal ablation and vertebral augmentation as well as the role of radiologists for treatment of spinal metastases.