Thoracic Tumor Resection

Thoracic tumor resection is a surgical procedure designed to remove tumors from the thoracic spine or surrounding structures. Tumors in the thoracic spine, whether benign or malignant, can cause significant pain, nerve compression, and potentially impair spinal function. Removing the tumor through thoracic tumor resection aims to alleviate symptoms, reduce the risk of further complications, and restore spinal stability. At the Brain and Spine Center of Texas, our experienced surgeons utilize the latest techniques to ensure optimal outcomes for patients requiring thoracic tumor resection.

The main goal of thoracic tumor resection is to remove the tumor while preserving as much healthy spinal tissue as possible. The procedure helps to prevent further compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots, relieving symptoms like pain, weakness, or numbness. Tumors can vary widely in type, location, and size, and thoracic tumor resection is personalized to each patient’s specific condition and needs.

Thoracic tumor resection is recommended for patients who have tumors in the thoracic spine that are causing significant symptoms or have the potential to worsen over time. These may include:

• Spinal Tumors – Tumors that originate in the thoracic spine, including vertebral tumors, spinal cord tumors, or nerve root tumors.
• Metastatic Tumors – Tumors that have spread (metastasized) from other parts of the body, such as the lungs or breast, to the thoracic spine.
• Benign Tumors – Non-cancerous tumors, like schwannomas or osteoid osteomas, that can still cause pain, deformity, or compression of the spinal cord.
• Malignant Tumors – Cancerous tumors that can cause severe pain, weakness, and neurological deficits due to compression of the spinal cord or nerves.

If left untreated, these tumors can lead to progressive neurological damage, chronic pain, and other serious complications. Thoracic tumor resection is essential to manage these risks and improve quality of life.

Thoracic tumor resection is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure can be done through various surgical approaches depending on the location of the tumor. Here is an overview of what to expect during the procedure:

1. Pre-Surgical Evaluation – Before the surgery, imaging studies such as MRI, CT scans, or biopsy results will be used to assess the tumor’s size, type, and location.
2. Incision and Approach – The surgeon makes an incision in the back or side to access the tumor. The exact location of the incision will depend on the tumor’s position and size.
3. Removal of the Tumor – The tumor is carefully removed from the spinal column, spinal cord, or surrounding tissues, ensuring minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
4. Spinal Reconstruction – If the tumor has caused significant damage to the spine, the surgeon may perform a spinal reconstruction, such as a fusion or placement of hardware, to maintain spinal stability after the tumor is removed.
5. Closure – After the tumor is resected and any necessary reconstruction is completed, the incision is closed, and the patient is monitored during recovery.

Thoracic tumor resection is typically an inpatient procedure, and most patients stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery.

Recovery from thoracic tumor resection will vary depending on the type of tumor and the extent of the surgery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Pain Management – Post-operative pain is common but can be controlled with prescribed medications to keep you comfortable during recovery.
• Physical Therapy – Physical therapy will begin once you’re stable enough and will focus on regaining strength and mobility in the thoracic region.
• Activity Restrictions – It’s important to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities during recovery to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
• Follow-Up Care – Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and check for any signs of tumor recurrence or complications.

The recovery time can vary, but most patients start feeling significant improvement within several weeks, with a full recovery typically taking several months.

• Expert Surgeons – Our experienced spine surgeons are highly skilled in thoracic tumor resection, using advanced techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
• Personalized Treatment – We create customized treatment plans based on the size, type, and location of your tumor, as well as your overall health.
• Comprehensive Care – From diagnosis to post-surgical rehabilitation, we provide holistic care and support throughout your entire treatment journey.]
• Minimally Invasive Options – We offer minimally invasive surgical techniques for thoracic tumor resection whenever possible to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.