The authors present the diagnostic methods and basic
surgical procedures used in treatment of
spinal neoplasms. Both metastatic and primary spinal tumours lead to instability and loss of the protective function. Spinal cord can be damaged by compression or increased mobility of the vertebral column.
Pain is reported as common symptom. Investigations include: plain
X-ray films, myelography,
radioisotope bone scan, CT, MRI and needle biopsy. The goal of surgery is to improve the quality of life with preservation of neurological function, reduction of
pain and assured spinal stability. Indications for surgery are related with patient's general condition, grade of neoplasmatic disease, neurological symptoms and spinal involvement. Curative surgery include total removal of the tumour with affected vertebral body, followed by spinal stabilization.
Palliative surgery as partial tumour removal, partial removal of the vertebral body or
laminectomy are performed for spinal
decompression. In the majority of cases surgery is combined with radiotheraphy, chemiotheraphy and treatment of
pain.<br /> Main goal of surgery in the treatment of spinal metastatic lesions are:
tumor removal (cytoreduction), protection of the spinal cord and spinal stabilization. The choice of surgical treatment depends on spinal involvement and neurological status.