Surgical treatment of benign spinal tumors

Surgical treatment of benign spinal tumors is aimed at removing neoplasms that may compress the spinal cord, nerve roots, or disrupt the structural integrity of the vertebrae. Despite their benign nature, timely surgical intervention is often required to prevent pain, neurological complications, and progressive spinal deformities.

Types of benign spinal tumors

1. Osteomas — dense bone tumors that grow slowly and are often asymptomatic.
2. Osteoid osteomas — tumors associated with pronounced pain, most commonly diagnosed in adolescents and young adults.
3. Hemangiomas — vascular tumors that may weaken vertebral bone tissue.
4. Aneurysmal bone cysts — fluid-filled cavities that can cause deformity and increase fracture risk.
5. Osteochondromas — bone-cartilage tumors arising on the surface of vertebrae.
6. Eosinophilic granulomas — inflammatory bone lesions leading to destruction of vertebral structures.

Indications for surgical treatment

• Persistent back or limb pain not controlled by medication.
• Compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots with symptoms such as numbness or muscle weakness.
• High risk of vertebral fracture due to bone destruction.
• Progressive spinal deformities (scoliosis, kyphosis).
• Increase in tumor size during follow-up observation.
• Impairment of internal organ function due to tumor compression.

Surgical treatment methods

Radical tumor excision. Complete removal of the tumor with maximal preservation of healthy tissues. This is the preferred approach for most benign spinal tumors.

Curettage and defect filling. Removal of tumor contents (e.g., cysts) followed by filling the cavity with bone cement or graft material.

Laminectomy. Resection of part of the vertebral arch to access the tumor and relieve spinal cord compression.

Spinal fixation. Placement of metallic instrumentation to restore and maintain spinal stability after tumor removal.

Radiofrequency ablation. A minimally invasive technique used primarily for osteoid osteomas, employing high-frequency electrical current to destroy tumor tissue.

Bone reconstruction. Restoration of bone defects using autografts, allografts, or bone cement.

How is the surgery performed?

Preoperative preparation

• MRI and CT imaging of the spine to assess tumor size, location, and characteristics.
• Laboratory tests to evaluate general health and exclude inflammatory processes.

Anesthesia

• The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

Surgical procedure

• The surgeon approaches the spine through an anterior or posterior incision.
• The tumor is removed according to its type and anatomical location.
• Spinal fixation or reconstruction is performed if required.

Completion of surgery

• Postoperative imaging (radiography) to assess spinal alignment and completeness of tumor removal.
• Wound closure and application of a sterile dressing.

Postoperative rehabilitation

1. Immobilization: use of an orthopedic brace to stabilize the spine.
2. Physiotherapy: laser therapy and magnetotherapy to reduce swelling and accelerate healing.
3. Therapeutic exercises: gradual rehabilitation to restore spinal mobility and strengthen back muscles.
4. Medication: analgesic and anti-inflammatory therapy.
5. Regular follow-up: clinical monitoring and periodic MRI or CT scans to exclude tumor recurrence.

Advantages of surgical treatment

• Complete tumor removal with minimal risk of recurrence.
• Relief of pain and neurological symptoms.
• Restoration of spinal stability.
• Reduction of fracture and deformity risk.

Surgical treatment of benign spinal tumors is an effective approach to eliminating neoplasms, restoring spinal function, and preventing complications. Modern surgical and rehabilitation techniques allow patients to return to an active and full life.

Spinal surgeries are performed in leading medical centers in Belarus, where specialists apply advanced technologies and an individualized approach to achieve optimal clinical outcomes.