Our Summary

This research paper is about a new surgical method for treating spinal metastases, which is when cancer spreads to the spine. The technique, called 3D endoscope-assisted transpedicular thoracic corpectomies, was tested on adults who had thoracic metastases that were causing spinal cord compression. The goal was to separate the tumor from the spinal cord while maintaining the safety and feasibility of the procedure.

The researchers treated nine patients with this method from January to April 2019. They managed to separate the tumor from the spinal cord in all cases. This was confirmed by imaging tests. Patients’ pain and neurological functions improved after the surgery if they were compromised before. There were no complications during or after the surgery. Patients stayed in the hospital for an average of four days after the procedure and were able to move around soon after. At the last check-up, there were no instances of the cancer returning.

The preliminary results suggest that this 3D endoscope-assisted technique is a safe and effective way to treat thoracic metastases. It can potentially reduce the need for a more invasive and costly surgery called costotransversectomy.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical method introduced for treating spinal metastases?
  2. What were the results of the surgeries performed using the 3D endoscope-assisted transpedicular thoracic corpectomies method?
  3. How does this new method potentially reduce the need for the more invasive and costly surgery called costotransversectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about spinal surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include restrictions on physical activity, proper wound care, medication management, and attending follow-up appointments. Adhering to these instructions can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for spinal surgery include those with spinal metastases, spinal cord compression, spinal deformities, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spinal fractures, and other conditions that affect the spinal cord and surrounding structures. In the case of this research paper, patients with thoracic metastases causing spinal cord compression were recommended for the 3D endoscope-assisted transpedicular thoracic corpectomies. These patients may have symptoms such as back pain, weakness, numbness, and difficulty walking due to the compression of the spinal cord by the tumor. Surgery may be recommended to relieve these symptoms, stabilize the spine, and prevent further damage to the spinal cord.

Timeline

Before the spinal surgery:

  • Patient is diagnosed with spinal metastases causing spinal cord compression
  • Patient undergoes imaging tests to determine the extent of the tumor
  • Patient may experience pain and neurological deficits due to the compression
  • Surgical options are discussed with the patient and a treatment plan is developed

After the spinal surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the 3D endoscope-assisted transpedicular thoracic corpectomy procedure
  • Tumor is successfully separated from the spinal cord
  • Patient experiences improvement in pain and neurological functions post-surgery
  • Patient stays in the hospital for an average of four days for recovery
  • Patient is able to move around soon after the surgery
  • Patient undergoes follow-up appointments to monitor progress and check for cancer recurrence

Overall, the new surgical method shows promising results in treating thoracic metastases and improving patient outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this spinal surgery procedure?
  2. How long is the recovery process expected to be, and what can I do to help speed up my recovery?
  3. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  4. What are the expected outcomes and success rates for this type of surgery in terms of pain relief and function improvement?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition, and what are the pros and cons of each?
  6. How experienced are you in performing this specific type of spinal surgery, and what is your success rate with this procedure?
  7. Will I need any additional testing or imaging before the surgery to ensure that I am a suitable candidate for this procedure?
  8. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery, and what can I expect during my hospital stay?
  9. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and are there any potential side effects or risks associated with it?
  10. What are the long-term implications of this surgery for my spinal health and overall well-being?

Reference

Authors: Cofano F, Di Perna G, Marengo N, Ajello M, Melcarne A, Zenga F, Garbossa D. Journal: Neurosurg Rev. 2020 Feb;43(1):351-360. doi: 10.1007/s10143-019-01204-2. Epub 2019 Nov 12. PMID: 31713701