In general, spinal tumors are classified based on their location as related to the dura mater (lining around the spinal cord) and spinal cord (medullary) as extradural, intradural extramedullary, or intradural intramedullary.
A spinal tumor, a growth that develops within or near your spinal cord or within the bones of your spine, can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). Typically, back pain is the most common first symptom of a spinal tumor. It is important to remember, however, that most back pain is associated with stress, strain and aging — not with a tumor.
Spinal tumors, regardless of whether they are benign or malignant, can cause pain, weakness and sometimes paralysis. In rare circumstances, they can threaten life and cause permanent disability. Neurosurgeons, such as Dr. Karahalios, who specialize in the treatment of these complex tumors, are able to successfully treat more patients than ever before. Advances in imaging modalities, surgical approaches and techniques—as well as technologies, such as the Novalis TX system that delivers non-invasive, yet lethal doses of radiation to spinal tumors—are all contributing to successful patient outcomes.