Our Summary

This study looked at a less invasive way of removing two types of benign spinal tumors, schwannomas and neurofibromas, using a special tool called a tubular retractor.

Data of 49 patients who had these surgeries between 2007 and 2019 was analyzed. The researchers found that nearly all of the tumors (93.7%) were completely removed, while a few (6.3%) were mostly removed.

The location of the tumor, either within or next to the spinal cord, did not affect the ability to use this less invasive method. Notably, there was no need to switch to a more invasive, open surgery in any of the cases.

On average, the surgeries took about 167 minutes and there was a moderate amount of blood loss. Importantly, there were no major complications from the surgeries.

Overall, the study suggests that this less invasive method can effectively and safely remove these types of spinal tumors, with results comparable to those of conventional, more invasive surgery, and without an increased risk of neurological damage.

FAQs

  1. What types of tumors were the focus of this study on less invasive spinal tumor removal?
  2. Did the location of the tumor affect the ability to use the less invasive method for removal?
  3. What were the results and conclusions of the study on using a tubular retractor for spinal tumor removal?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient that tumor resection using a less invasive method, such as a tubular retractor, can be a safe and effective option for removing benign spinal tumors like schwannomas and neurofibromas. This method can result in complete or near-complete tumor removal without the need for more invasive open surgery. The location of the tumor near the spinal cord does not affect the feasibility of using this approach. The surgeries are relatively quick and have a moderate amount of blood loss, with no major complications reported in the study. Overall, this less invasive method may offer a good alternative to traditional surgery with comparable outcomes and a lower risk of neurological damage.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tumor resection are those with benign spinal tumors such as schwannomas and neurofibromas. These patients may experience symptoms such as pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling due to the tumor compressing nerves or the spinal cord. Tumor resection may be recommended if the tumor is causing symptoms that affect the patient’s quality of life or if there is concern about the tumor growing or causing further complications.

Timeline

Before tumor resection:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as back pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the limbs.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scan to identify the tumor.
  3. Patient consults with a neurosurgeon to discuss treatment options.
  4. Surgery is scheduled and patient undergoes preoperative preparation.

After tumor resection:

  1. Patient undergoes surgery using a less invasive method with a tubular retractor.
  2. Tumor is completely or mostly removed during the surgery.
  3. Surgery lasts an average of 167 minutes with moderate blood loss.
  4. Patient recovers in the hospital for a few days before being discharged.
  5. Patient undergoes postoperative rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility.
  6. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor recovery and ensure no complications arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the benefits of using a tubular retractor for tumor resection compared to traditional open surgery?
  2. Are there any specific risks or complications associated with this less invasive method of tumor resection?
  3. How long is the recovery period expected to be after undergoing this type of surgery?
  4. Will I require any additional treatments or therapies following the tumor resection?
  5. Are there any restrictions or limitations I should be aware of during the healing process?
  6. What is the success rate of completely removing the tumor using this less invasive method?
  7. How often do patients experience recurrence of the tumor after undergoing this type of surgery?
  8. Will I need to undergo any follow-up imaging or monitoring to ensure the tumor has been completely removed?
  9. How experienced is the surgical team in performing tumor resections using a tubular retractor?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my specific type of tumor?

Reference

Authors: Argiti K, Watzlawick R, Hohenhaus M, Vasilikos I, Volz F, Roelz R, Scholz C, Hubbe U, Beck J, Neef M, Klingler JH. Journal: Neurosurg Rev. 2024 Aug 10;47(1):418. doi: 10.1007/s10143-024-02656-x. PMID: 39123090