Spine tumor surgery

What it is:

Spine tumor surgery is a complex procedure aimed at removing or reducing abnormal growths either benign or malignant within or around the spinal cord or vertebrae to relieve pressure, preserve neurological function, and prevent further damage. 

Symptoms:

May include persistent back or neck pain, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in limbs, difficulty walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, and in severe cases, paralysis or spinal deformity.

Treatment:

Treatment options depend on tumor type, location, and patient health, and may include:

• Surgery to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible
• Radiation therapy (including stereotactic radiosurgery or proton therapy) to target residual tumor cells
• Chemotherapy or targeted therapies for malignant tumors
• Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Clinical trials for advanced or resistant cases.