Journal Article

Hybrid Therapy for Metastatic Epidural Spinal Cord Compression: Technique for Separation Surgery and Spine Radiosurgery

Xu, Ran, Laufer, Ilya, Barzilai, Ori, Bilsky, Mark H, Robin, Adam, Yamada, Yoshiya

2019

Overview

Abstract BACKGROUND Despite major advances in radiation and systemic treatments, surgery remains a critical step in the multidisciplinary treatment of metastatic spinal cord tumors. OBJECTIVE To describe the indications, rationale, and technique of “hybrid therapy” (separation surgery and concomitant spine stereotactic radiosurgery [SRS]) along with practical nuances. METHODS Separation surgery describes a posterolateral approach for circumferential epidural decompression and stabilization. The goal is to decompress the spinal cord, stabilize the spine, and create adequate separation between the neural elements and the tumor for SRS to achieve durable tumor control. RESULTS A transpedicular route to achieve ventrolateral access and limited resection of the tumorous vertebral body is carried out. In the setting of high-grade cord compression, caution must be taken when performing the tumor decompression. “Separation” of the ventral epidural tumor component anteriorly creates space for concomitant SRS while a simple laminectomy would not adequately achieve this goal. Dissection of the posterior longitudinal ligament allows maximal ventral decompression. Gross total tumor resection is not crucial for durable tumor control using the “hybrid therapy” model. Thus, attempts at ventral tumor resection may unnecessarily increase operative morbidity. Cement augmentation of the construct or vertebral body may improve construct stability. CT myelogram is the preferred exam for postoperative SRS planning. Radiosurgical planning constitutes a multidisciplinary effort and guidelines for contouring in the postoperative setting have recently become available. CONCLUSION Separation surgery is an effective, well-tolerated, and reproducible surgery. It provides safe margins for concomitant SRS. Combined, this “Hybrid Therapy” allows durable local control, maintenance of spinal stability, and palliation of symptoms, while minimizing operative morbidity.

• Publisher: Oxford University Press,Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc
• Subject: Cancer metastasis / Care and treatment / Combined Modality Therapy / Decompression, Surgical - methods / Humans / Metastasis / Methods / Morbidity / Neurosurgery / Neurosurgical Procedures - methods / Operative Technique / Radiation (Physics) / Radiosurgery / Radiosurgery - methods / Radiotherapy / Setting (Literature) / Spinal cancer / Spinal cord / Spinal cord compression / Spinal Cord Compression - etiology / Spinal Cord Compression - radiotherapy / Spinal Cord Compression - surgery / Spinal Cord Neoplasms - complications / Spinal Cord Neoplasms - radiotherapy / Spinal Cord Neoplasms - surgery / Spinal cord tumors / Spinal Neoplasms - complications / Spinal Neoplasms - radiotherapy / Spinal Neoplasms - surgery / Spinal surgery / Surgery / Treatment Outcome / Tumor removal / Tumors