Spine Tumor Surgery
An abnormal mass of tissue within or surrounding the spinal cord and/or spinal column is referred to as a spinal tumor. These cells appear to be unaffected by the processes that regulate normal cells as they expand and reproduce uncontrollably. Benign (not cancerous) or malignant spinal tumors are both possible (cancerous). The spine or spinal cord is the site of primary malignancies, but cancer that has migrated to the spine from another site is called metastatic cancer or a secondary tumor.
Book an Appointment
About Spine Tumor Surgery
Depending on where they are in relation to the spinal cord's protective membranes, there are three basic types of spinal cord tumors.
Intramedullary cancers, such as gliomas, astrocytomas, or ependymomas, start in the spinal cord's own cells.
Extramedullary cancers can develop in the spinal cord's protective membrane or in the nerve roots that protrude from it. Even though they don't start in the spinal cord, these tumors have the potential to impair spinal cord function by pressing on it and causing other issues. Meningiomas, neurofibromas, schwannomas, and tumors of the nerve sheath are a few examples of extramedullary tumors that can harm the spinal cord.
Procedure of Spine Tumor Surgery
Spine tumor surgery is a complex procedure that involves removing a tumor or abnormal growth from the spine. Here are the general steps involved in spine tumor surgery:
Anesthesia: The patient is given anesthesia to put them to sleep and prevent them from feeling pain during the procedure.
Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the skin and muscle tissue over the affected area of the spine.
Exposure: The surgeon carefully moves aside muscle tissue and other structures to expose the spine and the tumor.
Tumor removal: Using specialized instruments, the surgeon carefully removes the tumor from the spine while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Spinal reconstruction: Depending on the size and location of the tumor, the surgeon may need to perform spinal reconstruction to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage. This may involve fusing vertebrae together, placing screws or rods to hold the spine in place, or using bone grafts to promote bone growth.
Closure: Once the tumor has been removed and the spine has been reconstructed, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures or staples.
Recovery: The patient is closely monitored in the hospital for a few days to ensure that there is no bleeding or other complications. They may be given medication to manage any pain or discomfort and to prevent infection. After leaving the hospital, the patient will need to undergo physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility in the affected area of the spine.
Spine tumor surgery is a complex and delicate procedure that requires a highly skilled and experienced surgeon. The specific procedure used will depend on the location, size, and type of tumor, as well as the patient's medical history and overall health. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of spine tumor surgery with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for each individual case.
