Spine Tumor
The spinal neurosurgery team provides the most comprehensive care available to spine tumor patients in Colorado.
Spine Tumor Symptoms and Treatment
A spine tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in or around the spine or spinal column and can be malignant or benign. There are over 15 different types of spine tumors, ranging in size, location, and complexity.
Epidural tumors grow in the bones of the spine. Intradural tumors can grow within the spinal cord or outside the spinal cord. Symptoms of a spine tumor can be gradual and increase as the tumor grows and compresses the spinal cord, nerve roots, or spinal fluid.
Signs of a spine tumor can include back pain, neck pain, muscle weakness, loss of feeling in certain areas of the body, numbness, loss of bowel or bladder control, mobility issues, and radiating pain in the extremities.
Imaging tests confirm the presence of a spine tumor, and a biopsy can determine if the tumor is benign or malignant. If the tumor is cancerous, a sample obtained from a biopsy can help the spine team determine the type of cancer to influence treatment options.
Early diagnosis and treatment of a spine tumor is critical to achieve a positive outcome. Treatment options are dictated by the type and location of the spine tumor. If safe removal of the tumor is possible, a resection surgery performed to remove the tumor. Our spinal neurosurgeons use state-of-the-art navigation for surgery to preserve function while safely removing as much tumor tissue as possible.
If the tumor is malignant, radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be recommended.
Comprehensive Cancer and Spine Tumor Treatment
Common cancers, such as lung or breast cancer, can spread to the spine. CU Anschutz offers the most comprehensive care available to patients with spine tumors.
Studies show that a multidisciplinary approach is the optimal standard of care for patients with metastatic cancers. Our care team involves specialists across campus collaborating on treatment plans for each individual patient.
The goal of treating cancerous spine tumors is to relieve pain and improve quality of life for cancer patients. Depending on the tumor type, stage, and location, chemotherapy and radiation therapy will likely follow resection surgery.
The CU Anschutz Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the State of Colorado and one of only four in the Rocky Mountain region. The CU Anschutz Cancer Center offers state-of-the-art, patient-centered spine tumor care, led by Director of Spine Oncology John Berry-Candelario, MD.
