If there has been significant destruction of the bones, then surgery may be required simply to maintain the structural integrity of the spine to prevent further injury to the spinal cord. Close monitoring of spinal cord function during the surgery is used to prevent inadvertent injury during removal of the tumor. Radiation and chemotherapy are almost always used together to improve the efficacy and reduce the side effects of each method. The surgeon, radiation oncologist and medical oncologist work together in formulating a plan tailored to each patient. The treatment of tumors is still very difficult since cancer is such a complicated disease.
Results vary widely based on the exact kind of tumor.
Generally, benign tumors have better results than malignant ones. Younger patients usually make a better recovery than older patients. In terms of surgery, if complete removal of the visible tumor is achieved, the recurrence rate is much lower than if any tissue is left behind. After surgery, most patients require intensive physical rehabilitation for a short time.