Learn about Spinal Tumor Surgery Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Spinal Tumor Surgery and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Spinal Tumor Surgery

Spinal tumor surgery is a specialized neurosurgical or orthopedic procedure performed by a spine surgeon to remove abnormal growths (tumors) from the spinal column or spinal cord. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may originate in the spine (primary) or spread from other parts of the body (metastatic). The primary goals are to relieve pain, decompress the spinal cord and nerves to prevent or reverse neurological deficits like weakness or numbness, obtain a tissue diagnosis, and achieve maximal safe tumor removal. The specific surgical approach, such as laminectomy, corpectomy, or minimally invasive techniques, is tailored based on the tumor's location, type, and the patient's overall health. This complex procedure requires a highly skilled multidisciplinary team to ensure optimal outcomes and preserve neurological function.

Key Highlights

    Provides definitive diagnosis through biopsy and histopathological analysis.Alleviates debilitating pain, numbness, and neurological symptoms caused by spinal compression.Aims to prevent permanent spinal cord or nerve damage and potential paralysis.Can be curative for some benign tumors or improve quality of life and longevity for malignant ones.Utilizes advanced technology like intraoperative neuromonitoring, navigation, and microscopes for precision.Minimally invasive techniques may be available, leading to smaller incisions and faster recovery./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Progressive neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, or loss of bowel/bladder control.
  • Intractable pain that does not respond to conservative treatments like medication or radiation.
  • Spinal instability or pathological fracture due to tumor erosion of the vertebrae.
  • Need for a tissue diagnosis when the tumor type is unknown.
  • Tumor growth observed on follow-up MRI or CT scans despite non-surgical treatment.
  • Significant spinal cord or nerve root compression (spinal stenosis) threatening function.
  • Radio-resistant tumors that do not shrink with radiation therapy.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including detailed MRI, CT, and sometimes PET scans to map the tumor.
  • Medical clearance from relevant specialists (oncologist, cardiologist) to assess fitness for major surgery.
  • Pre-operative embolization may be scheduled for highly vascular tumors to reduce bleeding risk.
  • Discussion of anesthesia risks and the procedure plan with the anesthesiologist and surgical team.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners, NSAIDs) as advised by the surgeon.
  • Fasting for 8-12 hours before the surgery as per hospital protocol.
  • Arranging for post-operative support and rehabilitation planning.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: infection, bleeding, blood clots (DVT/PE), and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  • Neurological risks: new or worsened weakness, numbness, paralysis, or loss of bowel/bladder function.
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, which may require additional repair.
  • Damage to surrounding structures like blood vessels or nerves.
  • Spinal instability, potentially requiring a fusion procedure with instrumentation (rods/screws).
  • Incomplete tumor resection or recurrence, especially with malignant or invasive tumors.
  • Persistent pain or the development of post-laminectomy syndrome.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay involves close monitoring in a specialized unit, pain management, and mobilization with assistance.
  • A brace or cervical collar may be prescribed to support the spine during initial healing.
  • Incision care instructions will be provided to prevent infection.
  • Physical therapy begins gradually to rebuild strength, mobility, and proper body mechanics.
  • Follow-up appointments are crucial for wound checks, suture removal, and monitoring neurological status.
  • Activity restrictions (no heavy lifting, twisting, or bending) will be advised for several weeks to months.
  • Long-term follow-up includes periodic imaging (MRI) to monitor for tumor recurrence.
  • Adjuvant treatments like radiation or chemotherapy may be recommended based on the final pathology report.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6 weeks to 6 months for initial recovery; full recovery and return to all activities may take up to a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering spinal tumor surgery in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for spinal tumor surgery compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 3,807 – USD 16,315 5-10 days ~ 6 weeks to 6 months for initial recovery; full recovery and return to all activities may take up to a year. Know More
Turkey USD 28,184 – USD 120,788 5-10 days ~ 6 weeks to 6 months for initial recovery; full recovery and return to all activities may take up to a year. Know More

Top hospitals for Spinal Tumor Surgery in Turkey

These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated spine surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing spinal tumor surgery.

Liv Hospital Ankara

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon140 Doctors

Liv Hospital Bahçeşehir

  • IconIstanbul, Turkey
  • Icon38 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

Follow-up visit for my cervical disc...

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