Spinal tumors are masses of abnormal tissue growth within or surrounding the spine. Tumors can be either benign or malignant. Tumors, depending on the size, location, and type, may need to be removed by surgery.
What is it?
Spinal tumor removal is a process that can be performed as an open surgery or as a minimally invasive surgery. A team of doctors is needed to select the appropriate procedure for a patient’s spinal needs.
What should I do to prepare?
Patients should prepare the home in advance in anticipation of limited mobility. These preparations include removing objects from walkways and having access to easily prepared food. Patients are recommended to walk as much as possible. A patient should refrain from smoking or taking blood thinners or supplements that predispose to surgical complications. Additionally, a patient should not eat or drink beginning at midnight on the night before surgery.
What happens during the process?
Patients are administered anesthesia surgery. During a minimally invasive spinal tumor removal procedure, an incision ranging from one inch to several inches is made on the back. The scope of tumor removal surgery is unique to each individual and can last up to several hours depending on the patient’s needs.
What are the risks and potential complications?
Spine tumor removal comes with associated risks that include, but are not limited to allergic reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, infection, blood clots, stroke, herniated disk, and nerve damage.
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