Tumores Espinales

A spinal tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the spinal cord or surrounding structures, such as the vertebrae. It is crucial to understand that not all tumors are cancerous; many are benign.

Symptoms can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but some of the most common include:

Persistent back pain: Often described as pain that does not improve with rest and may even worsen at night.

Weakness or numbness: A feeling of weakness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the arms or legs.

Difficulty walking: Balance or coordination problems that can lead to falls.

Changes in bladder or bowel function: Difficulty controlling urination or bowel movements.

If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it is crucial to seek a medical evaluation to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

No, and this is one of the most important concerns we address with our patients. Spinal tumors are classified into two main groups:

Benign (non-cancerous): These tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. Although they are not malignant, they can cause problems by pressing on the spinal cord or nerves.

Malignant (cancerous): These can originate in the spine itself (primary) or have spread from another part of the body (metastatic). Metastatic tumors are more common than primary tumors.

An accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the nature of the tumor and the most appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnosing a spinal tumor is a meticulous process that begins with a detailed medical history and a thorough neurological examination. Advanced imaging studies are used to confirm the presence and characteristics of the tumor. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most important and accurate tool, as it allows us to view the spinal cord, nerves, and surrounding tissues in great detail to define the exact location and size of the tumor.

In some cases, other studies may be requested, such as a Computed Tomography (CT) scan or a biopsy, which involves taking a small tissue sample for analysis to determine the exact type of tumor.

Treatment depends on several factors: the type of tumor (benign or malignant), its location, size, and your overall health. Not all cases require immediate surgery. Treatment options may include:

Note: For small, benign tumors that do not cause symptoms, we can opt for periodic follow-up with MRI scans.

Surgery: This is the most common treatment, especially for tumors that compress the spinal cord. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without damaging nerve structures. Microsurgery and neurophysiological monitoring during the operation are key technologies that increase the safety and precision of the procedure.

Radiotherapy: Uses high-energy radiation to destroy tumor cells or prevent their growth.

Chemotherapy: It is used in certain types of cancerous tumors, often in combination with other treatments.

The treatment plan is always personalized and discussed in detail with you, seeking the best possible quality of life.

Intramedullary tumors are a specific type of spinal tumor that grows within the spinal cord itself. They are less common than other spinal tumors, but present a significant surgical challenge due to their delicate location.

The spinal cord is the transmission center for all nerve signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Therefore, the removal of an intramedullary tumor demands a very high level of precision and technical expertise to preserve neurological function. Surgery for these tumors, such as ependymomas or astrocytomas, is performed under a microscope with constant monitoring of nerve function to minimize risks and achieve the best possible results for the patient. It is an area where the neurosurgeon's experience is absolutely crucial.