Radiographs (x-rays) are initially obtained and a bone scan may be ordered early to rule out tumors or infections.
There are many factors a surgeon will take into consideration before doing surgery for a spinal tumor. Review a list of circumstances that may warrant surgery. Article also covers typical surgeries used to treat spinal tumors.
Radiation for spinal tumors has one goal: to destroy the tumor. It can also be used before surgery to shrink the tumor. Article details how radiation is used, its effectiveness, and possible side effects (and how to deal with those).
In treating spinal tumors, your doctor may have you take various drugs and medications. These are not to treat the tumor; they treat the accompanying pain and/or the side effects of other treatments (such as radiation). List of common medications.
Chemotherapy is the first thing many people think of when facing cancer. Side effects. Hair loss. Weakness. Learn when chemo is used to treat spinal tumors and how it can help you.
A brace will not treat a spinal tumor; it's not able to make it shrink. However, your doctor may suggest a brace to help you deal with pain caused by the tumor. You may have to wear it before or after surgery.
