Dr. Krishna Shroff Dr. Krishna Shroff

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Spinal & Spinal Cord Tumours

Spinal & Spinal Cord Tumours

Spinal and Spinal Cord Tumours are abnormal growths that develop in or around the spine. These tumours may arise from the vertebral bones, the protective layers of the spinal cord (meninges), nerve roots, or the spinal cord itself.

They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may cause significant problems by compressing the spinal cord or nerves, leading to pain, weakness, or loss of sensation.

Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term disability. Our centre specializes in the precise diagnosis and advanced surgical management of spinal and spinal cord tumours, aiming to restore function and improve quality of life.

Types of Spinal & Spinal Cord Tumours

Spinal tumours are classified based on their location:

1. Extradural Tumours (Outside the spinal cord and its covering)

  • Often arise from the bones of the spine.

  • Examples: Metastatic tumours (spread from breast, lung, prostate), vertebral haemangiomas.

2. Intradural-Extramedullary Tumours (Inside the dura but outside the spinal cord)

  • Originate from the meninges or nerve roots.

  • Examples: Meningiomas, Schwannomas, Neurofibromas.

3. Intramedullary Tumours (Within the spinal cord)

  • Grow inside the substance of the spinal cord.

  • Examples: Ependymomas, Astrocytomas, Hemangioblastomas.

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms often develop gradually but may worsen over time. Common warning signs include:

  • Persistent or progressive back or neck pain, often worse at night.

  • Pain radiating to arms or legs.

  • Weakness or numbness in the limbs.

  • Difficulty in walking, maintaining balance, or climbing stairs.

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control in advanced cases.

  • Spinal deformity or abnormal curvature in some cases.

Early evaluation by a specialist is vital — delayed treatment can lead to permanent nerve damage.

Causes & Risk Factors

While the exact cause of most spinal tumours is unknown, some contributing factors include:

  • Metastatic spread from cancers of the breast, lung, prostate, or kidney.

  • Inherited genetic conditions such as neurofibromatosis.

  • Prior radiation exposure.

  • Rarely, primary spinal cancers.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. We use advanced tools for early and precise detection:

  • MRI Scan: The gold standard for identifying tumour type, size, and location.

  • CT Scan: To assess involvement of the spine’s bony structures.

  • Spinal Angiography: For vascular tumours to understand blood supply.

  • Biopsy: To confirm the tumour type in selected cases.

  • Electrophysiological Tests: To assess nerve and spinal cord function.

Treatment Options

Our approach is multidisciplinary and individualized, focusing on safe tumour removal while preserving neurological function.

1. Microsurgical Removal

  • Performed using high-powered operating microscopes and neuronavigation.

  • Maximizes tumour removal while protecting the spinal cord and surrounding nerves.

2. Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)

  • Suitable for selected tumours.

  • Benefits include smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery.

3. Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

  • A non-invasive option for small or surgically inaccessible tumours.

  • Uses highly focused beams of radiation to destroy tumour cells while sparing surrounding tissues.

4. Radiation Therapy & Chemotherapy

  • Often used for malignant or metastatic tumours as primary or adjuvant treatment.

5. Intraoperative Neuromonitoring (IONM)

  • Used during surgery to continuously monitor spinal cord and nerve function, minimizing the risk of postoperative deficits.

Rehabilitation & Recovery

Rehabilitation is a crucial part of treatment and may include:

  • Physiotherapy: To restore strength, mobility, and balance.

  • Occupational Therapy: To regain independence in daily activities.

  • Pain Management: For comfort and improved quality of life.

  • Regular Follow-Ups: MRI scans and clinical reviews to monitor for recurrence.

Why Choose Us for Spinal & Spinal Cord Tumour Care

  • Specialized Expertise: Skilled Neurosurgeon & Neuro-Oncosurgeon with extensive experience in complex spinal tumour surgeries.

  • Advanced Technology: Use of neuronavigation, intraoperative neuro-monitoring, high-powered microscopes, and minimally invasive techniques.

  • Comprehensive Approach: Collaboration between neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiologists, rehabilitation experts, and pain specialists.

  • Patient-Centric Care: Individualized treatment plans focused on safety, precision, and long-term well-being.

  • Postoperative Support: Dedicated rehabilitation services to help patients return to active life.

When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a specialist promptly if you experience:

  • Persistent back pain not relieved by rest or medication.

  • Numbness, weakness, or loss of coordination in arms or legs.

  • Difficulty walking or controlling bladder/bowel function.

Early detection and timely treatment can greatly improve outcomes and prevent permanent disability.