Spinal Tumor Treatment in St. Louis

Hearing that you have spinal cancer can be overwhelming and brings a flood of emotions and uncertainties. The spine is central to your body’s function, and a diagnosis of spinal cancer can impact not only your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being. 

We understand the fears and challenges that come with such a diagnosis, and we are committed to being by your side every step of the way. At St. Louis CyberKnife, we are here to provide guidance, support, and the most effective and personalized treatment options available to help you regain control of your confidence, health and life.

Understanding Spinal Cancer

Spinal cancer is a rare and serious condition characterized by the growth of malignant cells within the spinal cord, spinal column, or surrounding structures. These cancerous tumors can be primary, originating in the spine, or secondary, spreading from other parts of the body to the spine.

Symptoms often include back pain, neurological deficits, and loss of motor function, as the tumor can compress the spinal cord or nerves. Early detection through imaging tests and biopsies is crucial for effective treatment, which may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Common Risk Factors for Spinal Cancer

Understanding the common risk factors for spinal cancer can help in early detection and prevention. Here are some of the key risk factors: 

• Genetic predisposition: Certain inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing spinal cancer.
• Exposure to radiation: Previous radiation therapy, especially in the spinal area, can increase the risk of developing spinal tumors.
• Age: The likelihood of spinal cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in older adults.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions or treatments that suppress the immune system can elevate the risk of spinal cancer.
• History of cancer: Individuals who have had cancer in other parts of the body, such as breast, lung, or prostate cancer, have a higher risk of developing secondary spinal cancer.
• Chemical exposure: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in industrial environments, may increase the risk.
• Chronic inflammation: Conditions that cause chronic inflammation in the body can contribute to the development of spinal tumors.
• Lifestyle factors: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to a higher risk of various cancers, including spinal cancer.
• Viral infections: Certain viral infections, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), have been associated with an increased risk of cancer development in the spinal area.

The CyberKnife for Spinal Cancer

The CyberKnife is a leading-edge, non-invasive radiation therapy that precisely targets cancerous tumors in the spine. This advanced technology uses a robotic arm to deliver highly focused radiation beams from multiple angles, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

The CyberKnife is particularly beneficial for patients with spinal cancer as it can treat complex tumors with high accuracy, often in fewer sessions compared to traditional radiation therapy. The treatment is painless, requires no incisions, and typically allows for a quicker recovery, making it an effective option for managing spinal cancer.

Benefits of the CyberKnife

• Minimal Side Effects: The precision of the CyberKnife results in minimal side effects, reducing the impact on your quality of life during treatment.
• Fewer Treatments: The CyberKnife system generally requires fewer treatments than traditional radiation therapy (5 vs. 45), making it a more convenient option for many patients.
• Preserved Spinal Function: The CyberKnife system’s high precision helps preserve spinal function, ensuring that healthy tissues are not damaged during treatment.
• Outpatient-Based: The treatment is outpatient-based, meaning you can return home the same day, reducing the stress and inconvenience of hospital stays.

Why Choose St. Louis CyberKnife

Personalized Care: We understand that every spinal cancer case is unique. Our team will work collaboratively with you to develop a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific diagnosis, needs, and preferences. This ensures the most effective and comfortable treatment experience possible for you.

Expert Guidance: Our dedicated team comprises highly skilled radiation oncologists, nurses, therapists, and other specialists who are passionate about spinal cancer care. They bring a wealth of experience and compassion to ensure you receive the highest quality care throughout your entire treatment journey.

Advanced Technology: We leverage the power of the CyberKnife to its fullest potential for spinal tumors. Our specialists have extensive experience in fine-tuning treatment plans for precise and effective results specific to spinal cancers. This meticulous approach minimizes side effects and helps to optimize your quality of life during and after treatment.

Schedule a Consultation

Don’t wait to take charge of your spinal cancer journey. Early intervention can significantly improve your treatment outcomes. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our expert medical team.