Spinal Tumors
Tumors, wherever they occur in the body, may be malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous). When these tumors occur in the spinal cord or vertebrae, they can cause pain and even more dangerous health risks, including spinal fractures and paralysis. The treatment of spinal tumors is extremely challenging and requires specialized skill in order to protect against possible complications. You can trust the surgeons at Reconstructive Spine Surgery to perform this delicate, potentially life-saving procedure.
At Reconstructive Spine Surgery, our surgeons bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from three different specialties – orthopaedic, neurologic, and plastic surgery. They work together as a team to evaluate and treat even the most challenging spinal surgery patients with their unique multidisciplinary approach. You can find out more when you request a consultation online or contact us at (888) 506-4480.
Three Surgeons, One Team
Our surgeons bring a wealth of knowledge and experience from three different specialties – orthopaedic, neurologic, and plastic surgery. They work together as a team to find relief for even the most challenging spinal surgery patients.
Understanding Spinal Tumors
Malignant spine tumors are most frequently metastases (cancer that has spread from another area of the body). People with certain types of cancer – such as lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, kidney cancer, and thyroid cancer – are more likely to have spinal metastases. Although it is less common, there are some malignant tumors that actually begin in the vertebrae or in the spinal cord. The characteristics of the tumor – whether malignant or benign, metastases or primary – will help determine the course of treatment.
Some symptoms of spinal tumors include:
- Back pain (often worse at night)
- Loss of sensation
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of bowel or bladder function
- Paralysis
- Spinal deformity
If some or all of these symptoms are present, imaging tests such as an MRI, CT or myelogram and a biopsy may be ordered to help diagnose a spinal tumor.
Surgical Treatment
Treatment varies significantly depending upon the location and type of tumor as well as the overall health of the patient. Surgical treatments may include kyphoplasty (to treat vertebral compression fractures caused by vertebral tumors), decompression (removal of the tumor and any other structures compressing the spinal cord), other methods of tumor removal, and stabilization after tumor removal (fusion).
After Surgery
After surgery to remove a tumor on your spine, you should expect a hospital stay. In addition, you should be prepared for a recovery period that could last weeks or months. Your surgeons may recommend physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility. If the tumor was cancerous, radiation or chemotherapy may be necessary.
When your recovery from surgery (and, in the case of malignant tumors, cancer treatment) is complete, you should experience relief from the pain caused by spinal tumors, as well as continued independence and mobility. You will also have valuable peace of mind, knowing that you prevented further interference with neurologic function and spinal stability.
