Spinal Cord Tumor

Diagnosis and microsurgical treatment of spinal cord, spinal nerve, and spinal column tumors in Lahore, Pakistan

What is a Spinal Cord Tumor?

A spinal cord tumor (also called a spinal tumor) is an abnormal growth of cells within the spinal canal — either arising from the spinal cord tissue itself, from the nerve roots and membranes covering the cord, or from the vertebral bones surrounding it. Unlike brain tumors, spinal tumors most often present with pain and limb symptoms rather than headaches.

Most spinal tumors grow slowly, and early diagnosis makes a significant difference in preserving neurological function. A tumor that is caught and treated before it causes permanent nerve damage generally has a much better outcome than one diagnosed late.

Dr. Waqas Mehdi, FCPS Neurosurgeon at MidCity Hospital Lahore, has experience managing the full spectrum of spinal tumors — from common benign meningiomas and nerve sheath tumors to more complex intramedullary and metastatic spinal tumors.

Types of Spinal Cord Tumors

Extradural Tumors

Occur outside the dura (the tough covering of the spinal cord), most often in the vertebral bone. Includes metastatic tumors spreading from cancers elsewhere in the body, and primary bone tumors. The most common category overall.

Intradural-Extramedullary Tumors

Arise inside the dura but outside the spinal cord itself — most commonly meningiomas (from the cord's covering) and schwannomas/neurofibromas (from nerve roots). Usually benign and often completely removable with excellent outcomes.

Intramedullary Tumors

Arise from within the substance of the spinal cord itself — such as ependymomas and astrocytomas. The most technically challenging to remove, requiring microsurgical technique and intraoperative neuromonitoring to protect cord function.

Metastatic Spinal Tumors

Cancer that has spread to the spine from elsewhere (breast, lung, prostate, kidney are common primary sources). Treatment is often a combination of surgery for spinal cord decompression/stabilisation, radiotherapy, and oncology management.

Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Tumor

!Back or neck pain that gradually worsens over weeks/months
!Pain that is worse at night or when lying flat
!Progressive weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
!Difficulty walking or loss of balance
!Loss of coordination or fine motor control in the hands
!Bladder or bowel dysfunction (a red-flag symptom)
!Muscle spasms or stiffness in the legs
!Scoliosis or spinal deformity in children (can be an early sign)

Diagnosis

MRI Spine with Contrast: The key investigation — clearly shows the tumor's location (extradural, intradural-extramedullary, or intramedullary), size, and relationship to the spinal cord and nerve roots.
CT Scan: Useful for assessing bone involvement and planning surgical approach, particularly for tumors affecting the vertebral bodies.
Whole-Body Staging (for suspected metastasis): PET-CT or CT chest/abdomen/pelvis to identify a primary cancer source when a metastatic spinal tumor is suspected.
Biopsy: Sometimes required before definitive surgery, particularly for tumors where the diagnosis is uncertain or when non-surgical treatment (radiotherapy/chemotherapy) may be the primary option.

Treatment Approach

Microsurgical Resection

The primary treatment for most benign intradural tumors (meningioma, schwannoma) — performed under the operating microscope with intraoperative neuromonitoring to protect spinal cord and nerve function. Complete removal is often curative.

Decompression & Stabilisation

For tumors causing spinal cord compression or vertebral instability (especially metastatic tumors), surgery focuses on relieving pressure on the cord and stabilising the spine with instrumentation, often combined with radiotherapy.

Radiotherapy / Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Used for malignant tumors, metastatic disease, or as an adjunct after surgery, and sometimes as a primary treatment for small tumors in surgically difficult locations.

Observation

Very small, asymptomatic tumors found incidentally may be monitored with periodic MRI rather than immediate surgery, depending on tumor type and location.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a spinal cord tumor?
A spinal cord tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in or around the spinal cord. It may arise from the spinal cord itself (intramedullary), from the coverings of the cord (intradural-extramedullary, such as meningiomas and schwannomas), or from the bones and tissues surrounding the spine (extradural).
Who treats spinal cord tumors in Lahore?
Dr. Waqas Mehdi, FCPS Neurosurgeon and Assistant Professor at KEMU/Mayo Hospital Lahore, evaluates and surgically manages spinal cord and spinal column tumors, using MRI-guided planning and microsurgical or endoscopic techniques where appropriate.
What are the symptoms of a spinal cord tumor?
Common symptoms include gradually worsening back or neck pain (often worse at night or lying flat), progressive limb weakness or numbness, difficulty walking or balance problems, and in advanced cases, bladder or bowel dysfunction. Symptoms depend heavily on the tumor's location along the spine.
Are spinal cord tumors always cancerous?
No. Most spinal cord tumors — particularly meningiomas and schwannomas — are benign (non-cancerous). Malignant spinal cord tumors and metastatic tumors from cancer elsewhere in the body do occur but are less common than benign intradural tumors.
How are spinal cord tumors treated?
Treatment depends on the tumor type, location, and growth pattern. Many benign tumors can be completely removed surgically with excellent long-term outcomes. Malignant or metastatic tumors may require a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and oncology input.

Get an Expert Opinion on a Spinal Tumor

If you or a family member has been found to have a spinal tumor, or has symptoms suggestive of one, consult Dr. Waqas Mehdi for a thorough evaluation and personalised treatment plan. MidCity Hospital, Lahore — Mon to Sat, 6–8 PM.

Call: 0300-8482624Book Appointment

Related Conditions & Services

Spine SurgeryBrain Tumor SurgerySpinal StenosisAbout Dr. Waqas Mehdi

Consult Dr. Waqas Mehdi Today

Pakistan's trusted neurosurgeon for brain tumor surgery, spine surgery, and all complex neurological conditions. Book your appointment at MidCity Hospital, Lahore.

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