Spinal stabilisation in plasma cell disorders.

Five patients with plasma cell disorders and vertebral body lesions who presented with severe localised back pain associated with spinal instability are described. They underwent a total of six surgical spinal stabilisation procedures with excellent symptomatic relief. Spinal stabilisation was performed at presentation in 1 patient with a cervical spine lesion, and at sites of previously irradiated disease or recurrent disease in the other 4 patients. Stabilisation was achieved using various internal fixation techniques, and in 2 cases external fixation was obtained with a halo brace. The procedures were performed with minimal operative morbidity, and resulted in good symptom control. Spinal instability should be considered as a cause of severe localised back pain exacerbated by movement in patients with plasma cell disorders and vertebral body lesions. Operative spinal stabilisation should be considered as part of their management.