Lumbar tumor resection provides the means to remove tumorous growths from within the lumbar spinal canal. These tumors are usually benign, but a sample will be taken for testing. If it is determined that they are malignant, resection can be used to directly treat tumor growth using chemotherapy and radiation. However, resection is also used to provide relief from spinal compression due to the growth of tumors and their pressing on the spinal cord and nerves. For more information about lumbar tumor resection, contact Dr. Chetan Patel at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health. Set up an appointment by calling Call407-303-5452.
The Incidence of Spinal Cancer
Spinal cancer is rare, but not unheard of. For patients who suffer from this condition, the most common complication is compression of the spinal cord and nerves within the spinal canal. However, in some instances, the tumors are malignant and can metastasize throughout the spinal canal. Only through tumor resection can they be treated and/or removed from the spinal canal.
Direct Complications from Spinal Tumors
While spinal tumors might be benign, their effects are not. Their presence can cause serious neurological deficits in patients. In the lumbar region, they create compression, which can cause leg pain, back pain, difficulty walking, the inability to walk, the inability to control the bowels or bladder and more. To combat these potential problems, resection is necessary to remove the tumors.
How Is Tumor Resection Performed?
Resecting tumors in the spine requires surgery, and patients will be put under general anesthesia (unconscious for the duration of the procedure). If the surgeon decides to use a minimally invasive procedure, the incision will be made to the side of the spine (lateral), rather than a direct midline incision. Minimally invasive procedures also ensure that the muscle tissue is moved aside rather than cut through, so patients experience shorter healing times and less pain overall.
Once the surgeon gains access to the tumor’s location, the vertebra’s lamina will be cut to create a window. This is called a laminectomy, and is routinely performed to relieve the symptoms of spinal compression. The surgeon will then be able to reach the tumor through the window in the lamina. Tumors will be removed without damaging the normal, healthy tissue in the spinal canal.
Recovery Time for Tumor Resection Patients
Recovery time will vary for each patient. The number of tumors removed and their locations relative to each other will be the largest factors here, but most patients can expect to spend at least a day in the hospital, even with a minimally invasive procedure. Rehabilitation will also be required, though the duration and intensity will depend on how severe the neurological deficit from the tumor’s presence was.
For more information about tumor resection, spinal stenosis treatment, spinal fusion and other treatments, contact Dr. Chetan Patel. Call Call407-303-5452 to set up an appointment at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health for a full consultation on your condition and a recommendation for treatment.