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Spinal tumors are abnormal growths that develop within the bones of the spine or within the spinal cord itself, potentially leading to pain, neurological problems, and spinal instability. Intradural tumors (metastases) occur within the spine, while extradural tumors (schwannoma, meningioma, and ependymoma) occur externally, between the spinal cord and dura.
Intradural tumors are tumors that occur within the dura mater, the outermost layer covering the spinal cord and brain, but outside the spinal cord itself. These can be primary tumors originating in the meninges or nerve roots, such as meningiomas or schwannomas.
Metastases refer to cancer cells that have spread from their original (primary) site to other parts of the body, including the spinal column. Spinal metastases can cause pain, neurological deficits, and spinal instability, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for management.
Extradural tumors are those located outside the dura mater, often affecting the vertebrae or epidural space. These tumors can compress the spinal cord or nerve roots, leading to pain, neurological symptoms, and sometimes requiring surgical intervention.
A schwannoma is a benign tumor that arises from Schwann cells, which form the protective sheath around peripheral nerves. These tumors are usually slow-growing and can cause symptoms by compressing adjacent nerves or structures, often requiring surgical removal if symptomatic.
Meningioma is a typically benign tumor that originates from the meninges, the layers of tissue covering the brain and spinal cord. Though usually slow-growing, meningiomas can cause neurological symptoms by compressing the brain, spinal cord, or surrounding nerves, necessitating surgical or radiological treatment.
Ependymoma is a type of glioma derived from ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord. These tumors can occur at any age and may cause symptoms due to obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid flow or direct compression of neural structures, often treated with surgery and radiotherapy.
Intradural tumor resection involves the surgical removal of tumors located within the dura mater but outside the spinal cord. This delicate procedure aims to alleviate symptoms caused by the tumor, such as pain and neurological deficits, while preserving as much normal function as possible.
Extradural tumor resection is the surgical removal of tumors located outside the dura mater, typically affecting the vertebrae or epidural space. The goal is to relieve compression of the spinal cord or nerves, reduce pain, and maintain or restore spinal stability.
Dr. Macyszyn is highly experienced in the surgical management of spinal tumors, utilizing advanced techniques to remove tumors while preserving neurological function.
Intradural tumor resection is a delicate surgery to remove a tumor located inside the protective sac surrounding the spinal cord (the dura). This procedure requires careful microsurgical technique to maximize tumor removal while minimizing damage to the spinal cord and nerves, aiming to alleviate neurological symptoms.
Decompression surgery, including laminectomy, involves removing part of the vertebral bone called the lamina to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This procedure is often used to treat spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or tumors.
