Spine Tumors
Spine tumors are abnormal growths of tissue found in the area of the spine. Tumors in the spine can be primary, meaning they originated in the spine, or secondary or metastatic, in which they move to the spine from other locations. The most common cancers that move to the spine are breast, renal, prostate and lung. Most often cancer that moves to the spine is not fatal, although it can be painful. Spine tumors often compress the nerves of the sine causing weakness or paralysis in the arms or legs. Treatment of a spine tumor is focused on maintaining the quality of life. You can find a qualified spine surgeon in Los Angeles or in many other larger cities around the country.
The majority of spine tumors are located in the center of the back, but they can occur in both the lower back and neck region. The location of the tumor determines the symptoms you will experience. While some patients have no symptoms, they most common symptoms of a spine tumor is pain, especially in the back or neck. Other symptoms can include tingling or weakness in the arms or legs, numbness, problems walking or maintaining balance, or problems with bowel or bladder function, which are much the same symptoms of a herniated disc. A consultation with a herniated disc surgeon in Los Angeles is the best course of action is you suspect a tumor or herniated disc.
Several methods are used to diagnose spine tumors, including an MRI, X-rays, CT scans or PET scans. Spinal tumor treatment often requires the expertise of several specialists including a spine surgeon, neuroradiologist, pathologist, oncologist, and pain management specialist. Some options for treating a spinal tumor include no medical treatment at all, managing the pain with medication, wearing a brace, surgery, or vertebroplasty in which bone cement is injecting into the spinal bones to make them strong. The type of treatment usually depends on the patient’s symptoms, health, scans and test results. Each case is evaluated on an individual basis and the treatment is designed to meet the patient’s needs.
If surgery is required to treat the spine tumors, recovery time will often depend on the type of procedure performed and the side effects experienced. Many patients travel for spine tumor removal to Los Angeles to find a qualified and experienced professional to ensure they are in the best hands.
It’s important to remember that just because there is a tumor present on your spine doesn’t mean that it is cancerous. There are many different types of tumors are just a bundle of tissue that may not even need removal. If you are waiting on test results it’s important to speak to your doctor about your concerns and seek the support of family and loved ones to help you through this stressful time. Ask a loved one to come to your doctor’s visits with you for both moral support, and to help you remember to ask any questions you may have. You can also seek the support of an online forum devoted to people going through your same experience. Having the love and support of family and friends will be invaluable while you negotiate through this stressful time.
For more information please visit Back Doctor Los Angeles, Neurosurgeon Los Angeles, and Laser Spine Surgery Los Angeles.