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A sample of cells from the tumour (biopsy) is also taken to be examined by a tissue expert (pathologist) under a microscope. However, if this is not possible, some of the tumour may be removed. Sometimes it is possible to remove spinal tumours completely.

Surgery: The aim of surgery is to stabilize the spine, protect the spinal cord and maintain function and pain control.

Treatment starts as soon as possible after the cancer is discovered. Of course, you have the final decision about the type of treatment you receive. The MDT gives advice on treatment options that would benefit you the most.

This is a team of doctors and health professionals who specialise in different aspects of treating spinal tumours. Your test results are discussed by the multi-disciplinary team (MDT).

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A full explanation of all results and possible treatment pathways will be explained to you after this meeting. The test results will be discussed in the multi-disciplinary team meeting. This depends on the types of tests you have at the hospital. It may take up to two weeks for your test results to come through. Any abnormal areas of bone that are affected by cancer will show up as ‘hot-spots’ on the scan. Abnormal areas of bone will absorb the material at a faster rate than normal bone. It involves a small amount of radioactive material being injected into your veins. A bone scan can provide more detailed information about the inside of your bones than an X-ray.

Bone Scan: A bone scan helps us diagnose any tumour spots in other bones that may need treatment.

Some people are given an injection of dye into a vein in the arm, but this usually does not cause any discomfort.

MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging scan): This is similar to a CT scan, but uses magnetism instead of x-rays to make a detailed picture of your body.

A CT scan may be used to identify the exact tumour location, or to check for any cancer spread.Most people who have a CT scan are given a drink or injection to allow particular areas to be seen more clearly. You will be asked not to eat or drink for at least four hours before the scan. The scan is painless and takes from 10–30 minutes.

A computer is then used to build a 3D picture of inside the body. CT scan (computerised tomography scan): A CT scanner takes lots of x-rays of the body.

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We perform a series of investigations to find out why you have been having symptoms.

Spine cancer