The tumor may weaken the bone, causing it to fracture and collapse. This can result in severe pain and pressure on nerves or the spinal cord. The tumor can expand outside the bone, also causing pressure on nerves or the spinal cord.
Some tumors can cause the bone to expand, also placing pressure on surrounding tissues.
Depending on the type of tumor and the symptoms it is causing, different treatments can be used. If there is pressure on nerves or the spinal cord, surgery may be considered. If the tumor has a large blood supply, this can complicate surgery. This is usually done within a few days of the surgery. If surgery is not recommended or possible, embolization may be performed to shrink the tumor.