Thus, certain decisions must be made at the time of surgery. If biopsy of the tumor reveals malignant astrocytoma, further resection is not warranted. However, if it is an ependymoma, then the surgeon may be able to remove the tumor completely. Benign astrocytomas will present with varying degrees of capsules. Therefore, they may or may not be resectable.
Neurological recovery is modest and takes months to years.
M.D. The spinal cord is the conduit through which the brain conducts impulses to the body controlling limb, bladder, and bowel functions, and through which sensory information from the body is transmitted to the brain. Structural support to the cord is given by the vertebral column. The most common causes of spinal cord injury are motor vehicle accidents and falls. Management of injuries begins at the scene of the accident. After impact, the stability of the injury plays a crucial part in further management.