Revision Surgery for Primary Spinal Tumor: Too Little Too Late

Abstract

Primary tumors of the spine are rare and represent less than 8% of all bone tumors.1 Because of their low prevalence, they are often misdiagnosed and consequently managed improperly. Unlike metastatic spine tumors, some primary tumors can be cured. Spine tumors are classified according to their histology. How- ever, patient age and anatomic location add relevant information on the biological behavior of the tumor. In children, the most frequent spinal tumors are malignant and are represented by neuroblastoma and sarcoma. In adults, the most common spinal tumors are multiple myeloma, osteosarcoma, histiocytosis, chordoma, and hemangioma. These tumors often develop in the anterior vertebral body, whereas aneurysmal bone cysts, osteo- blastoma, and osteoid osteoma commonly involve the posterior elements.