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What Are Spinal Tumors?

Spinal tumors are growths that can occur within the spinal column, which consists of the vertebrae, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues. These tumors are categorized based on their location:

  • Intramedullary tumors: Tumors that form inside the spinal cord. These are relatively rare and can affect the cord’s delicate nerve tissues.
  • Extramedullary tumors: Tumors that develop outside the spinal cord but within the surrounding tissues or bones. These are more common and may cause compression of the spinal cord or nerves, leading to neurological symptoms.

Types of Spinal Tumors

Spinal tumors can be classified as either benign or malignant:

Benign tumors

Non-cancerous spinal tumors, such as meningiomas, schwannomas, and osteomas, may grow slowly and are less likely to spread to other parts of the body. However, even benign tumors can cause significant symptoms if they compress the spinal cord or nerves.

Malignant tumors

Cancerous spinal tumors, such as osteosarcomas, multiple myelomas, or metastatic tumors (tumors that have spread from other areas of the body), are more aggressive and can invade surrounding tissues. Malignant tumors often require prompt and comprehensive treatment.

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Symptoms of Spinal Tumors

The symptoms of spinal tumors can vary depending on their size, location, and whether they are compressing the spinal cord or nerves. Common symptoms include:

  • Back or neck pain: Persistent, localized pain is often the first symptom of a spinal tumor. Pain may worsen over time and may radiate to other parts of the body, such as the arms or legs, depending on the location of the tumor.
  • Neurological symptoms: Tumors that press on the spinal cord or nerves can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, or even paralysis in the affected areas.
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control: In more advanced cases, spinal tumors can interfere with the nerves that control bowel and bladder function, leading to incontinence.
  • Difficulty walking: As tumors grow and compress nerves or spinal structures, patients may experience difficulty walking, poor coordination, or balance issues.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of spinal tumors is not always clear, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing them:

Genetic mutations

In some cases, genetic mutations or inherited conditions, such as neurofibromatosis, may increase the likelihood of developing spinal tumors.

Metastatic cancer

Spinal tumors can occur when cancer from another part of the body (such as the lungs, breasts, or prostate) spreads to the spine. This is one of the most common causes of malignant spinal tumors.

Radiation exposure

Individuals who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, particularly in cancer treatment, may have an increased risk of developing spinal tumors.

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Diagnosis of Spinal Tumors

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately assess spinal tumors. Our team begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s symptoms and medical history, followed by diagnostic imaging tests, which may include:

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans provide detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding tissues, making it easier to detect tumors and assess their size and location.
  • CT scans: CT scans use X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the spine, helping to identify abnormalities in the bones and tissues.
  • Biopsy: If a tumor is detected, a biopsy may be performed to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant. This involves removing a small sample of tissue from the tumor for analysis.

Treatment Options for Spinal Tumors

The treatment of spinal tumors depends on various factors, including the type of tumor, its size and location, and the patient’s overall health. At Gerling Spine Care, we offer a range of treatment options to address spinal tumors and improve patient outcomes:

Non-Surgical Treatments

For certain benign tumors or small tumors that do not pose an immediate threat to the spinal cord, non-surgical treatments may be recommended:

  • Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors and prevent further growth. Radiation therapy may be used on its own or in combination with surgery for malignant tumors.
  • Chemotherapy: For patients with malignant tumors, chemotherapy may be prescribed to target cancerous cells and reduce tumor size.
  • Observation: In cases where the tumor is benign and not causing symptoms, a watch-and-wait approach may be recommended. Patients will be closely monitored with regular imaging tests to ensure the tumor does not grow or cause complications.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery may be necessary to remove the tumor or relieve pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Our team of spine surgeons specializes in advanced, minimally invasive procedures to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes. Surgical options include:

  • Tumor resection: If the tumor is accessible, surgeons may perform a resection to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This can help relieve symptoms and prevent further damage to the spine.
  • Spinal stabilization: In cases where the tumor has weakened the vertebrae, spinal stabilization surgery may be required to reinforce the spine and prevent fractures or deformities.
  • Decompression surgery: If the tumor is compressing the spinal cord or nerves, decompression surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure and improve neurological function.
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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care for Spinal Tumor Treatment?

At Gerling Spine Care and Research Institute, we are dedicated to providing personalized, expert care for patients with spinal tumors. Our team of experienced spine specialists, led by Dr. Michael Gerling uses the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

We understand that spinal tumors can be a life-altering diagnosis, and we are committed to guiding our patients through every step of their treatment journey. Whether through non-surgical management or advanced surgical interventions, we aim to provide compassionate care that prioritizes your health and quality of life.

Other Conditions We Treat

In addition to spinal tumors, we offer treatment for a wide range of spinal conditions, including:

  • Spinal fractures: Trauma-related or osteoporosis-related fractures of the vertebrae.
  • Degenerative disc disease: The gradual breakdown of the intervertebral discs, leading to chronic back pain.
  • Spondylolisthesis, Deformity and Instability: Mechanical breakdown of the spinal architecture can lead to painful arthritis, significant abnormal appearance and painful pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
  • Herniated discs: Displacement of the disc material, often causing nerve compression.

If you suspect you may have a spinal tumor or are experiencing symptoms related to your spine, we encourage you to seek a consultation with our team to discuss your condition and explore your treatment options. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing spinal tumors and improving outcomes.

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