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Guidelines for sites linking to mayoclinic.orgMayo Clinic is one of a few medical facilities in the United States that treats a large number of spinal cord tumors each year. Experienced specialists from neurosurgery, neurology, neuroradiology, neuropathology, medical oncology and radiation oncology work together to treat these uncommon tumors. What might take months to accomplish in other settings can be done in days in Mayo Clinic's efficient system.
Mayo Clinic is one of the world's leading brain tumor treatment and research centers. Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked No. 1 in Neurology and Neurosurgery by U.S. News and World Report.
Mayo Clinic is a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, giving patients access to new developments and treatments for spinal cord tumors. Mayo participates in several cooperative clinical trials networks, including the North Central Cancer Treatment Group.
The most critical step in diagnosing a spinal cord tumor is an accurate history and physical examination to help pinpoint the affected area. Next, imaging is performed to detect and visualize the suspected tumor. Mayo Clinic uses high-field-strength MRI scanners to find smaller tumors that can be missed on lower-power scanners. Once a tumor is found, a biopsy (tissue sample) must be taken to determine the tumor type and the most appropriate treatment. Read more about spinal cord tumor diagnosis.
Mayo Clinic neurosurgeons perform more than 3,000 neurosurgical procedures each year, among the highest volumes in the world. Mayo Clinic neurosurgeons use special monitoring and intraoperative imaging techniques to more safely and accurately remove spinal cord tumors. Learn more about spinal cord tumors treatment options.
Spinal cord tumors are abnormal growths of tissue found in or near the spinal cord. Because the spinal cord is housed within a rigid, bony structure (the spinal column), any abnormal growth can exert pressure on sensitive tissues and impair function. Also, any tumor located near sensitive spinal cord nerves can cause pain and weakness. Spinal cord tumors affect people of all ages, but are most commonly found in young to middle-aged adults.
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