The Effect of Transpedicular Injection of Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2/Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate Carrier on the Prevention of Proximal Junctional Kyphosis in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery: A Pilot Study

Neurosurgery 96:986–996, 2025

The study explores the use of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) with beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) to prevent proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in adult spinal deformity surgery. Results indicate reduced PJK incidence and increased bone density at the upper instrumented vertebra.

• The study explores the use of transpedicular injection of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) with a beta-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) carrier to prevent proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

25 patients received rhBMP-2 injections, and their outcomes were compared with two control groups with 66 and 63 patients each.

• Results showed a significantly lower incidence of PJK in the rhBMP-2 group compared to control groups.

• The injection also led to a significant increase in trabecular bone density at the upper instrumented vertebra (UIV).

Multivariate analysis indicated that rhBMP-2 injection at the UIV had a protective effect against PJK.

• The study suggests that this method can be easily integrated into surgical procedures to enhance bone density and reduce PJK risk.

Limitations include the small sample size and lack of randomization, warranting further studies.

• The study concludes that rhBMP-2/β-TCP injection is a promising strategy for preventing PJK in ASD surgery.