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MRI Scans

Management of spinal Tumors

What Are Spinal Tumors?

Spinal tumors are abnormal growths located in the spine. They can be either benign or malignant and may cause pain, neurological problems, or instability. Early diagnosis and expert management are crucial to prevent complications.

Doctor Checking Blood Pressure

Symptoms & When to Seek Care

  • Persistent or worsening back or neck pain.

  • Pain at night that is not relieved by rest.

  • Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs.

  • Difficulty walking or a loss of balance.

  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction in advanced cases.

Diagnostic Approach

  • Clinical Examination: Begin with a thorough history and neurological assessments to identify symptoms. 

  • MRI: The gold standard for accurately localizing tumors and determining their extent.

  • CT and X-ray: Assess bone involvement and spinal stability to inform treatment planning.

  • PET Scan / Advanced MRI: Characterize tumors and check for metastasis, aiding in effective treatment strategies.

  • Laboratory Tests: Include CBC, ESR, tumor markers, and myeloma screening for crucial patient information.

  • Biopsy: Essential for definitive histopathological confirmation of tumor type.

Treatment Options for Spinal Tumors

Tumor care depends on type, location, size, health, and metastasis, best managed with a multidisciplinary approach.

  • Surgery: Decompression, stabilization, resection, vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty. 

  • Radiation: External beam, stereotactic radiosurgery (SSRS), carbon-ion therapy.

  • Chemotherapy: For malignant/aggressive tumors, often combined with other treatments.

  • Targeted Therapies: Denosumab and molecular drugs.

  • Symptom Management: Pain control, steroids, bisphosphonates, physiotherapy.

  • Observation: For small, slow-growing benign tumors.

Image by Otto Norin
Child on Wheelchair

Goals of Treatment

  • Alleviate pain.

  • Protect or restore neurological function.

  • Achieve the safest possible tumor removal.

  • Stabilize the spine.

  • Enhance or maintain quality of life.

Recovery & Prognosis

Recovery varies based on tumor type, surgical complexity, and neurological status. Minimally invasive techniques promote faster recovery and better outcomes, while regular imaging follow-ups ensure long-term safety.

FAQs

Do all spinal tumors require surgery?
No, some can be monitored or treated without surgery.
 
Is surgery safe?
Yes, modern techniques enhance safety. 

What is the prognosis?
Varies by tumor type and stage; early diagnosis improves outcomes.

If you or a loved one has a spinal tumor, prompt evaluation is crucial. Expert care can relieve symptoms and preserve quality of life.

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