Spinal tumors can cause serious health problems affecting the spinal cord or spinal bones. They can be primary tumors originating in the spinal cord and spine itself, or they can have metastasized from another tumor focus to the spinal cord or spinal bones. Spinal tumor surgery is a surgical procedure to treat such tumors and protect the spinal cord.
Spinal tumor surgery is a surgical procedure performed to remove or treat tumors located in the spine. This procedure can be performed with different techniques depending on the size, location and degree of spread of the tumor. Its aim is to remove the tumor and protect the spinal cord or nerves from its effects.
What are the symptoms of a spinal tumor?
Spinal tumors are abnormal cell growths that develop in the spine or spinal cord, and symptoms can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor and the nerve structures it affects. What are the common symptoms of spinal tumors:
Back or Neck Pain: Usually constant and progressive, the pain may worsen at night or during rest.
Radicular Pain: Pain radiating to the arms or legs due to compression of nerve roots.
Numbness and Tingling: Loss of sensation or tingling in the arms, legs or other parts of the body.
Weakness: Weakness in muscles, especially in the hands, arms, legs or feet.
Coordination and Balance Problems: Problems with walking and balance, often falling.
Loss of Control of Urination or Defecation: Difficulty with bladder or bowel control, incontinence.
Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss.
Fatigue: A constant feeling of weakness and tiredness.
It is important to contact a health professional if any of these symptoms occur, especially if they are severe or persistent. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in the management of spinal tumors.
What is a spinal tumor?
A spinal tumor is a mass or masses caused by abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the spine or spinal cord. These tumors can be benign (benign) or malignant (malignant) and can develop in different parts of the spine. Spinal tumors can be primary, meaning that they originate in the spine itself, or secondary, meaning that they are the result of cancer elsewhere in the body spreading to the spine (metastasis).
What is a spinal cord tumor?
A spinal cord tumor is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the spinal cord or spinal cord membrane. These tumors can be benign (benign) or malignant (malignant) and can develop in different parts of the spinal cord. Spinal cord tumors can press on the nerve roots, spinal cord or spinal bones, causing neurological symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, weakness and coordination problems. Symptoms can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. Spinal cord tumors are usually diagnosed with imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Treatment options may include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, depending on the type and size of the tumor and the patient's general health. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical in the management of spinal cord tumors.
Spinal Tumor Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a spinal tumor begins with an assessment of the patient's symptoms and is usually supported by a thorough medical history and physical examination. During this process, doctors take into account the patient's pain, numbness, muscle weakness and other neurological symptoms. To make a definitive diagnosis, advanced imaging techniques are used. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for detecting spinal tumors by providing detailed images of the spine and spinal cord structures. Computed tomography (CT) scans provide additional information about bone structures and tumor location. X-rays show structural changes in the spine. A biopsy may also be performed to determine the type of tumor and assess the degree of malignancy. Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies can also contribute to the diagnosis by assessing nerve function. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that spinal tumors are accurately diagnosed and an appropriate treatment plan is created.
What is the Treatment Process?
Before spinal tumor surgery, your specialist will give you a detailed examination and assess the condition of the tumor. During surgery, an appropriate surgical approach is used to remove or treat the tumor. This approach may vary depending on the type and location of the tumor. A neuromonitoring device is used to protect the nerve tissue. The contents of the removed tumor are taken to the pathology laboratory for examination. During the postoperative period, you will participate in rehabilitation and physical therapy programs. Following your doctor's recommendations can speed up your recovery. Spinal tumor surgery is a critical surgical procedure to protect the spinal cord and health. However, it is important to consult with a specialist to learn more about treatment options and determine the best one for you.
