The spine is one of the body’s most vital and intricate structures, protecting the spinal cord while providing strength, mobility and stability. When a spinal tumor develops, whether benign or malignant, it can threaten both spinal integrity and neurological function. At DISC Sports & Spine Center, our fellowship-trained neurosurgeons and orthopedic spine specialists offer advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating spinal tumors through minimally invasive and complex spine surgery.
A spinal tumor is an abnormal growth of cells within or surrounding the spinal cord and vertebral column. These tumors can originate directly in the spine (primary tumors) or spread from another part of the body (metastatic or secondary tumors). Although relatively rare, spinal tumors can cause significant pain, weakness, sensory changes or even paralysis if they compress the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Spinal tumors are typically categorized by their location relative to the spinal cord and its protective layers:
Because spinal tumors can grow silently, symptoms may appear gradually as the tumor enlarges and compresses nerves or spinal structures. Common signs include:
If you experience any of these symptoms (especially if they worsen over time), it’s important to consult a spine specialist promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention can help preserve neurological function and improve outcomes.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment — and our specialists at DISC use advanced imaging technologies such as MRI, CT, and PET scans to identify tumor type, size and location. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the tumor’s pathology.
The diagnostic process is highly individualized, combining clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and multidisciplinary input from radiologists, oncologists and neurosurgeons. This team-based approach ensures that every aspect of the patient’s condition is fully understood before recommending treatment.
The treatment of spinal tumors depends on the tumor’s type, size, location, and impact on neurological function. Options may include:
Spinal tumor surgery is among the most complex procedures in neurosurgery and orthopedic spine care. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible, relieve pressure on the spinal cord, and stabilize the spine — all while preserving nerve function.
DISC surgeons specialize in complex spine surgery, utilizing state-of-the-art navigation systems, intraoperative monitoring and microsurgical techniques to achieve the highest precision. These technologies enable surgeons to differentiate between tumor tissue and vital neural structures, minimizing risk and maximizing safety.
When a tumor compromises the structural stability of the spine, spinal reconstruction or fusion may be necessary. Using advanced instrumentation and biologics, our surgeons restore alignment and support while maintaining as much natural motion as possible.
The Advantages of Minimally Invasive Techniques
Whenever possible, our specialists employ minimally invasive surgical approaches to access and remove spinal tumors. These techniques involve smaller incisions, reduced muscle disruption and shorter recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.
Minimally invasive tumor resection may be performed using tubular retractors and high-powered microscopes, allowing precise removal of the tumor through a small working channel. Patients often benefit from:
Comprehensive Rehabilitation and Recovery
Recovery from spinal tumor surgery depends on the tumor’s nature, surgical complexity and the patient’s overall health, and rehabilitation is integrated into every patient’s care plan. Our team of physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists helps patients restore strength, balance and mobility, safely and effectively.
Follow-up imaging and clinical evaluations are crucial to monitor for recurrence and ensure spinal stability. The DISC team remains closely involved through every phase of recovery, offering ongoing support and care.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a spinal tumor, don’t wait to get evaluated by the experts. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our leading spine surgeons and learn more about your treatment options.