Spinal Cord Tumors

Overview

Spinal cord tumors are abnormal growths of tissue found in or near the spinal cord. Because the spinal cord is housed in a rigid, bony structure (the spinal column), any abnormal growth can put pressure on sensitive tissues and impair function. Also, any tumor located near sensitive spinal cord nerves may cause pain and weakness.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Expertise and experience. Mayo Clinic doctors have been treating and removing spinal cord tumors for more than 100 years. A leading center in the United States for neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic treats more than 1,000 people a year who have spinal cord tumors. In addition, Mayo Clinic surgeons perform more than 3,700 neurosurgical procedures each year.
• Diagnostic and treatment capabilities. Mayo Clinic offers rapid diagnosis and treatment planning by a team of skilled experts. Neurologists and neurosurgeons work with experienced nerve tissue analysts (neuropathologists) to identify spinal cord tumors.
• Comprehensive cancer center. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center, giving you access to new developments and treatments for spinal cord tumors. Mayo Clinic participates in several cooperative clinical trials networks and is the research base for the North Central Cancer Treatment Group.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for neurology and neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.

Read more about spinal cord tumors at MayoClinic.com.