Neurosurg Focus
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Sacral tumors are relatively rare, and experience related to resection of these tumors is therefore usually limited to a small number of patients. The purpose of this retrospective study was to review the authors' experience with sacral neoplasms over the last 12 years. ⋯ Despite the potential for complications, sacrectomy can be performed successfully, and is an important procedure in the treatment of primary sacral tumors.
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Osteoid osteomas and osteoblastomas are rare primary bone tumors that usually do not arise in the spine. In this report the authors analyze 16 cases of osteoid osteoma or osteoblastoma of the spine that were surgically treated over a 27-year period. ⋯ With the help of modern imaging modalities that aid in diagnosis and surgical planning, a complete removal and cure may be achieved for most of these rare tumors.
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Tumors involving the cervicothoracic junction can have a high propensity for causing instability, with kyphosis and spinal cord compression resulting. Treatment with decompression only can lead to further instability and worsening neurological status. In this article, the authors review their surgical experience in the treatment of 19 patients with tumors involving the cervicothoracic junction. The various approaches and instrumentation techniques involved in decompression and stabilization of the cervicothoracic junction are also reviewed. ⋯ Familiarity with complex instrumentation techniques and various surgical approaches to the cervicothoracic junction will be required for effective treatment of tumors causing instability of this region.