Spinal Tumors and Intradural Pathology
Adult Neurosurgical Condition
Spinal Tumors and Intradural Spine Pathology
Spinal tumors and intradural spine pathologies are complex conditions involving abnormal growths or lesions affecting the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding protective structures. These conditions may be benign or malignant and can occur in both children and adults. Because of the critical neurological structures involved, timely diagnosis and expert management are essential to prevent permanent neurological injury and preserve function.
Spinal tumors are classified based on their location relative to the spinal cord and its coverings: extradural, intradural-extramedullary, or intramedullary. Common examples include meningiomas, schwannomas, ependymomas, astrocytomas, metastatic tumors, and congenital lesions such as dermoid and epidermoid cysts. Patients may present with back or neck pain, weakness, numbness, gait instability, sensory changes, or loss of bowel and bladder control. Symptoms often progress gradually, but acute neurological deterioration can occur.
Diagnosis relies on advanced imaging, particularly MRI, which allows detailed visualization of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding tissues. Treatment is highly individualized and may include surgical removal, biopsy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches depending on the specific pathology.
Modern spinal surgery utilizes microsurgical techniques, neuromonitoring, navigation systems, and minimally invasive approaches to maximize tumor removal while preserving neurological function. Our multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, oncologists, neurologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation specialists provides comprehensive care from diagnosis through recovery and long-term follow-up. We focus on restoring neurological function, relieving pain, and helping patients return to active, independent lives with the highest possible level of safety and precision.