Spine tumors are abnormal growths affecting the spinal cord, nerve roots, vertebral column, or surrounding tissues. They may be primary tumors originating within spinal structures or secondary metastatic lesions from systemic malignancies. Spine tumors can be classified based on anatomical location as extradural, intradural extramedullary, or intramedullary, each presenting unique surgical challenges and neurological implications.

Clinical presentation varies depending on tumor location, size, and rate of growth. Common symptoms include localized or radicular pain, progressive neurological deficits, sensory changes, weakness, gait disturbance, and bladder or bowel dysfunction. Spinal cord compression is a critical complication that requires urgent neurosurgical evaluation to prevent irreversible neurological damage.

Diagnostic evaluation relies heavily on magnetic resonance imaging, which provides detailed visualization of tumor extent, spinal cord involvement, and neural compression. Imaging findings guide surgical planning and help differentiate between tumor types. In selected cases, biopsy may be required to establish histological diagnosis prior to definitive treatment.

Neurosurgical management aims to decompress neural elements, obtain tissue diagnosis, and restore or maintain spinal stability. Surgical strategy is influenced by tumor pathology, patient neurological status, spinal stability, and overall disease burden. In metastatic disease, surgery is often performed to relieve compression and improve neurological function rather than achieve cure.

Modern spine tumor surgery utilizes microsurgical techniques, intraoperative imaging, and spinal instrumentation when required. Stabilization procedures are frequently combined with tumor resection to prevent postoperative deformity and maintain spinal alignment. Surgical decision-making balances oncological control with preservation of neurological function.

Postoperative management includes neurological monitoring, pain control, and coordination with oncology services for adjunctive therapy. Rehabilitation plays an important role in functional recovery following spine tumor surgery.

Spine tumors represent complex neurosurgical conditions requiring meticulous planning, precise execution, and long-term follow-up to optimize neurological outcomes and spinal integrity.