Spinal Tumors

A spinal tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue within or around the spinal cord. These growths can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). While they can occur at any age, they are more common in adults.   

He has over 20 years of experience specializing in spine and joint surgery. He holds a Spine Surgery Qualification Diploma and a Eurospine Diploma. He is a Professor in Orthopedics and Traumatology, PhD at Medical Biology and Genetics , and PhD at Clinical Anatomy PhD. Holding an MD and two PhD degrees.

He has performed over 4,000 surgeries throughout his career, treating a wide range of spinal and joint conditions such as vertebral fractures, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, ankylosing spondylitis, and spinal tumors.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Prof. Dr. Mehmet Fatih Korkmaz. You can contact him directly via WhatsApp at 0 (505) 556 6777 or through the contact form on our website.

Types of Spinal Tumors

Spinal tumors can be broadly categorized into two main types:

Primary Spinal Tumors:

These tumors originate within the spinal cord or its surrounding tissues. They are relatively rare. Common types include:   

• Intramedullary Tumors: Grow within the spinal cord itself.
  • Ependymomas: Originate from the cells lining the spinal cord's central canal.  
  • Astrocytomas: Arise from astrocytes, a type of glial cell that supports neurons.  
• Extramedullary Intradural Tumors: Grow within the spinal cord's protective membranes (meninges) but outside the spinal cord tissue.
  • Meningiomas: Originate from the meninges.  
  • Neurofibromas: Develop from nerve sheath cells.
• Extramedullary Extradural Tumors: Grow outside the dura mater, the outermost layer of the meninges.
  • Metastatic Tumors: Cancer cells that have spread from other parts of the body, such as the lung, breast, or prostate.

Secondary Spinal Tumors (Metastases):

These are more common than primary tumors and occur when cancer cells from other parts of the body spread to the spine. Common primary sites for metastatic spinal tumors include the lung, breast, prostate, and kidney.   

Symptoms of Spinal Tumors

The symptoms of a spinal tumor depend on its location, size, and whether it's compressing the spinal cord or nerves. Common symptoms include:   

• Back pain: Often the first symptom, it may worsen at night or with movement.  
• Neck pain: Similar to back pain, it can be localized or radiate to other areas.  
• Muscle weakness: Weakness in the arms, legs, or trunk.  
• Numbness or tingling: Sensations in the arms, legs, or trunk.
• Loss of bowel or bladder control: Difficulty controlling bowel or bladder function.  
• Difficulty walking: Impaired balance or coordination.  
• Scoliosis: Abnormal curvature of the spine.   

Diagnosis of Spinal Tumors

Diagnosing spinal tumors involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests:   

• Physical Exam: A neurological exam to assess muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation.  
• Imaging Tests
  • X-ray: Can identify bone abnormalities.  
  • CT Scan: Provides detailed images of bone and soft tissue.  
  • MRI: Offers the best visualization of the spinal cord and surrounding tissues.  
  • Biopsy: A small tissue sample is removed for microscopic examination to confirm the diagnosis.   

Treatment of Spinal Tumors

The treatment approach for spinal tumors depends on various factors, including the tumor's type, location, size, and the patient's overall health. Common treatment options include:   

• Surgery:
  • Tumor Removal: Surgical removal of the tumor, if possible.  
  • Decompression: Relieving pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.  
  • Stabilization: Strengthening the spine to prevent instability.
• Radiation Therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.  
• Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells.  
• Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): A precise form of radiation therapy to target the tumor.  
• Watchful Waiting: Monitoring the tumor without immediate intervention, especially for slow-growing, benign tumors.

Prognosis

The prognosis for spinal tumors varies widely depending on the type, location, and stage of the tumor. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the outcome. Benign tumors often have a good prognosis, while malignant tumors, especially metastatic ones, may have a more guarded outlook.   

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial for managing spinal tumors and improving patient outcomes.   

Istanbul: A Hub for Advanced Spinal Tumor Treatment

Istanbul has emerged as a leading destination for spinal tumor treatment, offering world-class medical facilities and experienced specialists. Here's a look at what Istanbul offers for patients seeking treatment for spinal tumors:

World-Class Hospitals and Specialists:

• Advanced Medical Technology: Istanbul's hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology for diagnosing and treating spinal tumors, including MRI, CT scans, and advanced surgical tools.  
• Experienced Surgeons: The city boasts highly skilled neurosurgeons with extensive experience in minimally invasive spinal tumor surgery.  
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Istanbul's hospitals often employ a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation experts, to provide comprehensive care.   

Istanbul has established itself as a reliable destination for spinal tumor treatment. Its combination of advanced medical facilities, skilled specialists, and affordable costs makes it an attractive option for patients seeking quality care. By carefully researching and selecting the right healthcare provider, patients can maximize their chances of successful treatment and recovery.