SPINAL CORD TUMORS:
A spinal tumor is an abnormal growth of cells that involves spinal cord. Spinal tumor may be outside the spinal cord (Extra-dural), inside the covering of spinal cord (intradural extra-medullary) or arising from the cells of the spinal cord itself (intradural intra-medullary). The symptoms of the tumor vary depending upon the location and origin of the tumor.
Procedure:
The majority of symptomatic spinal cord tumors need surgery, which may usually be done with tiny incisions in the back or neck. For spinal tumor surgery, Dr Ammar Anwer utilizes cutting edge state of the art gadgets including high speed surgical drill, neuronavigation, fluoroscope, endoscope and intraoperative neuromonitoring to ensure patient safety. After surgery, patient may need further treatment, such as radiation or chemotherapy. In some cases, spinal stabilization is required. Dr. Ammar Anwer makes the surgery safer, less intrusive, and more successful by combining cutting-edge technology and apparatus with established surgical expertise.
Complications:
- Anaesthesia-related complications.
- Infection
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak
- Nerve root injury
Frequently asked questions about Spinal Cord Tumor Surgery
Are There Different Types of Spinal Tumors?
There are two main types of spinal tumors: primary spinal tumors, which develop in the spine itself, and secondary spinal tumors, which metastasize (spread) to the spine from other parts of the body. Secondary spine tumors are the most common, though both primary and secondary spinal tumors are caused by uncontrolled cell growth.
How Do You Know if You Have Spinal Cancer?
The most common indicator of spinal cancer is pain in the neck or back that worsens over time. Spinal tumors are caused by uncontrolled cell growth, and because there is only a small amount of space in the spinal canal, a spinal tumor can press on the spinal cord or other neural tissue. This can cause pain or neurological symptoms, such as numbness or weakness in the extremities or chest area, difficulty walking or standing, loss of sensation throughout the body and a loss of bladder or bowel control.
What is expected time to recovery after spinal tumor surgery?
After spinal tumor surgery, the patient is discharged on the first post-operative day, stitches are removed on 14th day. Depending on pre-operative neurology, patient may require rehabilitation for a few months.
Does Dr Ammar Anwer accept insurance?
Yes, Dr Ammar Anwer accepts insurance.