Spine Tumors

Not all spine tumors are cancerous. However, even a benign spine tumor usually requires surgery. The board-certified neurosurgeons at Coast Neurosurgical Associates in Long Beach, California, have extensive expertise in the complex surgical procedures necessary for spine tumors. They use the most advanced technology available to help ensure a successful outcome and offer patient-focused support before, during, and after treatment. Schedule an evaluation today. Call the office or request an appointment using their secure online service.  

What is a spine tumor?

Spinal tumors are abnormal growths that often grow rapidly and uncontrollably. These tumors can develop anywhere along the spine and may involve the spinal cord, nerves, or bony structures.

Some occur within the membranous tissue (dura) covering the spinal cord (meningiomas). Others grow in the nerve roots (schwannomas and neurofibromas). Extradural spine tumors grow outside the dura and may extend outside the spinal canal through openings in the vertebrae.

A spine tumor may be noncancerous or cancerous and can originate in the spine (primary tumors) or spread from another area (secondary tumors). Vertebral hemangiomas, originating in the bony vertebrae, are the most common primary tumor and are typically benign.

The American Association of Neurological Surgeons estimates that 30-70% of cancers can eventually spread to the spine.

What types of cancers spread to the spine?

The most common types of cancer that metastasize (spread) to the spine include:

• Lung cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Multiple myeloma
• Lymphoma
• Melanoma
• Thyroid cancer
• Kidney cancer

Cancers affecting the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and colon, also increase your risk of metastatic spinal tumors. Careful surveillance of the spine with advanced imaging studies such as MRI or PET scans is often recommended for people diagnosed with these types of cancer.

Why would you need surgery for a benign spine tumor?

Even benign spine tumors may grow quickly and can, depending on where they occur, cause various complications, including:

• Moderate to severe pain at the tumor site
• Decreased sensitivity to heat or cold
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• Full or partial paralysis
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Persistent numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
• Weakness in the bone surrounding the tumor

However, if a benign spinal tumor diagnosed with a biopsy is slow-growing and not causing debilitating symptoms, your surgeon may recommend frequent monitoring versus surgery.

For cancerous spine tumors, surgery is often recommended as part of your cancer treatment plan. Depending on the type, location, and tumor size, surgical goals include removing the growth entirely or significantly reducing its size. The Coast Neurosurgical Associates team works closely with your cancer care team before, during, and after your surgery.

Schedule an evaluation today for top-level specialty care you can rely on. Call the Cost Neurosurgical Associates’ office or request an appointment online.