Journal of Spine

Role of Radiotherapy in Primary Spinal Canal Tumors

Abstract

Mahadev P

Primary spinal canal tumors are a diverse group of neoplasms constituting 4% of all central nervous system tumors. They can be broadly classified into intradural and extradural tumors. MRI is the most useful neuroimaging modality. A histopathology is mandatory in most of the cases. The primary modality of treatment is surgery. No adjuvant treatment is required if a complete excision can be done. However, in a significant number of patients, complete excision may not be feasible in view of the possibility of significant neurological complications. Hence, external radiotherapy plays an important role in the management of these neoplasms. Radiotherapy may be given as a definitive treatment or more commonly as an adjuvant. Advancements in technology have made the delivery of high precision radiotherapy like three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy, intensity modulated radiotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery feasible and safe. The favourable prognostic features are feasibility of achieving a complete resection, low grade, caudal location, small volume disease and histology.