Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information and peer support purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Every spinal cord tumour, surgical procedure and recovery journey is different. Outcomes can vary significantly depending on factors such as tumour type, size, location within the spinal cord, extent of surgery, age, overall health and individual neurological response. Always seek advice from your neurosurgical team, GP or healthcare professionals regarding your own condition and treatment.
A spinal tumour resection is an operation to remove all or part of a tumour from the spinal cord or surrounding tissues.
The word “resection” simply means surgical removal.
Because spinal cord tumours can vary greatly in size, location and type, every operation is slightly different. Some tumours sit outside the spinal cord and are easier to separate, while others are located within the spinal cord itself (intramedullary tumours), making surgery far more delicate and complex.
The main aim of surgery is usually one or more of the following:
- remove as much of the tumour as safely possible
- reduce pressure on the spinal cord
- preserve neurological function
- improve symptoms such as pain, weakness or numbness
- obtain tissue for diagnosis
How is the surgery performed?
Most spinal tumour resections are carried out under general anaesthetic, meaning the patient is asleep throughout the operation.
The surgeon usually makes an incision in the back over the affected area of the spine. A small section of bone may then be removed to access the spinal cord. This is often called a laminectomy.
Once the spinal cord and tumour are reached, the surgeon uses a microscope and highly specialised instruments to carefully separate tumour tissue from surrounding nerves and spinal cord structures.
In many spinal cord operations, neuro-monitoring is used during surgery. This means electrical signals are monitored continuously to help reduce the risk of damaging important nerve pathways.
Can the whole tumour always be removed?
Not always.
Some tumours have clear boundaries and can sometimes be removed completely. Others are more attached to or intertwined with spinal cord tissue, meaning surgeons may decide it is safer to leave a small portion behind rather than risk major neurological damage.
In these situations, the priority is often preserving quality of life and function rather than aggressively removing every last tumour cell.
What happens after surgery?
Recovery varies enormously from person to person.
Some patients notice improvements fairly quickly, particularly if symptoms were caused by compression of the spinal cord. Others may initially feel weaker, stiffer or more fatigued before gradual recovery begins.
Common temporary or long-term effects after surgery can include:
- weakness
- numbness or altered sensation
- balance problems
- muscle tightness or spasticity
- bladder or bowel changes
- fatigue
- nerve pain
The spinal cord can take a very long time to heal and adapt. Recovery may continue for months or even years after surgery.
Rehabilitation often plays a major role and may involve:
- physiotherapy
- occupational therapy
- hydrotherapy
- mobility aids
- pain management
- psychological support
For many people, the emotional side of recovery can be just as significant as the physical side. It is common to experience anxiety, frustration or uncertainty during the recovery process.
Although spinal cord tumour surgery can feel overwhelming, many people go on to rebuild meaningful and fulfilling lives following treatment, even if life afterwards may look different to before.
If you or a loved one are facing surgery, remember that every spinal cord tumour journey is unique. Talking openly with your neurosurgical team and connecting with others who have lived experience can often help reduce some of the fear surrounding the unknown.
2 responses
I am such a person as you have described above and as such it could have been written about me. I found myself becoming more and more unable to move as a used to and as it was 2021 and in the midst of COVID, my Doctor prescibed Peripheral Neuropathy caused by Long COVID. I felt there was something more and created a bit so was asked if I wanted to be referred to a Neurologist. Personally I wanted to be referred to absolutely anyone and everyone who could help. I finally got my appointment with the said Neurologist in November 21 and after my mobility was so bad I was housebound I created again and my planned MRI scan was pushed ‘along a bit’ and on 18 Jan 22 i was found to have a spinal tumour which if not operated on asap would leave me totally crippled. I had my op a week later and have been recovering ever since with moments of dispair, then moments of ‘pure adventure’. All with various amounts of pain involved. Now however I have found a way after 4 years of ‘managing my pain and lack of mobility’ to be able to ‘try’ and carry on as normally as I can. Not nearly the same as before but carry on. I just happened to stumble on you web page and as I say was so happy and relieved that all you have written is what I have felt, am feeling and has made me no longer feel as if I am a leper in this modern society. I have had some rough times, with people laughing at me, being purposely unhelpful and just downright horrible to those other people who have nearly made me cry with their kindness. I don’t class myself as disabled just not able to do what I previously did but I am disabled. I had a tumour in my thoratic spine (can’t remember exactly where, I have a note somewhere) and consider myself very fortunately that I did create and was operated on when I was. So maybe getting in touch with others who have, are and will feel the same way may be another step towards recovery. Thank you for listening.
You are most welcome Anne. It is a very rare condition and often such an unique experience for all those affected. However we tend to often share similar experiences physically and emotionally. It can be very easy to feel like you are the only person to go through such an experience and nobody gets it. I totally understand that, bought the t shirt as they say many years ago! I try to write articles that others can relate to and it is really appreciative to hear such feedback. Take care, Paul.