Episode # 83 • 02 Sept 2025
Spine Ablation & Kyphoplasty: Handling Complex Cases
From patient selection to procedure technique–learn the key insights that shape a successful kyphoplasty and spine ablation practice. In this episode of the BackTable MSK Podcast, host Dr. Michael Barraza welcomes back Dr. Asad Baig, an Interventional Radiologist and director of the Interventional Spine Center at Columbia University. They discuss the latest developments at Columbia, focusing on exciting expansions in the interventional radiology and spine realms. The primary focus of their conversation is on advanced techniques in spine ablation and kyphoplasty, and the ideal patient profile for these treatments.
This podcast is supported by an educational grant from Medtronic.
Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction
01:31 - Evaluating Patients Prior to Spine Ablation
09:02 - Who is the Ideal Candidate for Ablation Kyphoplasty?
14:24 - Approaching Lesions Within the Vertebral Body
21:26 - When is it Appropriate to Use Balloons After an OsteoCool Ablation?
27:58 - Approach to Patients with Significant Vertebral Height Loss
35:33 - Challenging Cases with Kyphoplasty
39:02 - Sclerotic versus Lytic Lesions
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More about this episode
Dr. Baig begins the episode by explaining the importance of collaborating with radiation oncologists and spine surgeons to optimize patient outcomes and emphasizes considerations, such as bone quality, prior to a spinal ablation. The episode also features Dr. Baig’s approach to treating sclerotic versus lytic lesions with his insights on navigating complex cases involving post-radiation fractures and internal fixation complications. This first episode of a two-part series emphasizes a multi-disciplinary approach and the need for precise imaging and patient communication when treating patients with spinal ablation.
Medtronic was not involved in the creation or delivery of any program content and does not control whether the materials conform to FDA approved or cleared indication.
The Materials available on BackTable are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the independent professional judgment of a qualified healthcare professional in diagnosing or treating patients. Any opinions, statements, or views expressed are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, platform, or any affiliated organization.