Successful Removal of a Large Spinal Cord Tumor

At first, the patient experienced no symptoms, as the tumor was very small and did not press on any nearby areas. However, as the tumor grew, symptoms began to appear, especially pain. This pain extended from the middle of the back down and was not related to effort or physical activity, but worsened with extreme exertion, such as exercise, sneezing, or coughing. The patient tried to relieve this pain with various painkillers, but to no avail. Instead, the pain worsened over time, becoming severe and annoying even while resting. One night, the patient was unable to sleep due to deep pain in his back muscles, which caused him extreme discomfort, especially since it led to back muscle spasms.

This patient decided to consult a specialist, as the pain began to interfere with his daily life. He searched extensively for a doctor skilled in spinal pain, and a friend recommended Dr. Zeiad Yossry, Professor of Neurosurgery.

Dr. Zeiad Yossry performed a comprehensive examination of the patient, including a physical examination of the back and muscles and a neurological examination to check for spinal pain, loss of pain and/or temperature sensation, and muscle weakness. Dr. Zeiad Yossry ordered several tests, including a spinal x-ray to view the spinal cord, nerves, bones, and surrounding tissues, and blood tests to check calcium and alkaline phosphatase levels, which rise in the blood when bone tissue breaks down, this can occur if the patient has a malignant tumor. 

The tests revealed that the patient had a large tumor on the spinal cord, which was compressing the nerves and causing severe symptoms. This tumor had also extended into the back muscles behind the peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdominal cavity), necessitating surgical intervention. Dr. Zeiad Yossry explained to the patient that the spinal cord lies within the spine, protected from injury, and contains bundles of nerves that transmit messages between the brain and nerves throughout the body. A tumor on or near the spinal cord can disrupt this communication, impair function, and seriously threaten health. Therefore, it is important to undergo surgery to permanently remove the tumor.

The goal of spinal tumor treatment is complete removal of the tumor whenever possible. This is often the preferred approach for tumors that can be safely excised. Dr. Zeiad Yossry performed the tumor resection for this patient, a highly precise procedure. With great skill and experience, Dr. Zeiad Yossry was able to completely remove the tumor. The vertebrae were then stabilized using plates and screws, relieving pressure on the surrounding nerves while immediately reconstructing and stabilizing the spine.

Thanks to Dr. Zeiad Yossry's expertise, the results of the tumor resection were remarkable. The tumor was completely removed without affecting the spinal cord or its function. The patient's pain completely disappeared, and he regained his ability to perform his daily activities.