Spinal Meningioma: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Minimally Invasive Removal
September 16, 2026
Hearing that an MRI has identified a tumor near your spinal cord can be frightening. One diagnosis patients may encounter is a spinal meningioma, a tumor that develops from the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Although the word “tumor” naturally creates concern, most meningiomas are benign, meaning they are not cancerous. However, even a benign tumor can cause problems when it grows in the limited space surrounding the spinal cord and begins placing pressure on neurological structures.
For patients considering spinal tumor removal or searching for an experienced neurosurgeon in Los Angeles, understanding the diagnosis is an important first step.
The brain and spinal cord are protected by layers of tissue called the meninges. A meningioma begins in these membranes.
Within the spine, meningiomas are generally classified as extramedullary tumors, meaning they develop outside the spinal cord tissue itself. Many are located inside the dura—the protective covering surrounding the cord—but outside the spinal cord.
This location can sometimes allow the tumor to be surgically separated from the spinal cord, although every case is different and the exact size and position of the tumor matter.
Meningiomas often grow slowly. As a result, symptoms may develop gradually and can initially be mistaken for more common spine conditions.
When a spinal meningioma begins compressing the spinal cord or nerves, symptoms may include numbness or tingling in the legs, weakness, difficulty walking, and changes in bladder or bowel control. Spinal tumors more generally may also cause persistent back or neck pain, balance problems, or changes in sensation.
The symptoms depend largely on where the tumor is located and how much pressure it places on surrounding neurological structures.
MRI is particularly useful when evaluating spinal tumors because it helps identify the tumor’s location and relationship to the spinal cord and nerves.
When reviewing an MRI, a neurosurgeon looks beyond whether a mass is present. Important questions include how large it is, whether the spinal cord is compressed, how the tumor relates to surrounding tissue, and whether the imaging findings correspond with the patient’s symptoms.
These details help determine whether observation or spinal tumor removal should be considered.
No. Small, slow-growing spinal tumors that are not causing symptoms may sometimes be monitored with follow-up imaging rather than treated immediately.
When a meningioma is producing neurological symptoms, showing concerning growth, or significantly compressing the spinal cord, surgery may be recommended.
The goal of spinal tumor surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as can be done safely while protecting the spinal cord and surrounding nerves. Surgical planning depends on the tumor’s exact position, size, and relationship to critical neurological structures. Mayo Clinic notes that many spinal meningiomas can be surgically removed with good long-term control, although individual outcomes vary.
Because spinal meningiomas are relatively uncommon, patients may benefit from evaluation by a neurosurgeon experienced in spinal tumor surgery.
If an MRI has identified a spinal meningioma or another intradural mass, obtaining a specialist review can provide clarity about whether surgery is necessary, what approach may be appropriate, and what to expect during recovery.
A spinal meningioma diagnosis can come with questions about what to do next. A consultation with a spinal tumor specialist can help clarify the diagnosis, evaluate how the tumor may be affecting the spinal cord or nerves, and determine whether monitoring or surgical treatment may be appropriate.
To better understand your symptoms and available treatment options, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Macyszyn in Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, or Tarzana today.
