EnBloc Resection of a Chordoma of the Thoracic Spine by "L"-Shaped Osteotomy for Spinal Canal Preservation.

Background/

Objectives

EnBloc resections of bone tumors of the spine are very demanding as the target to achieve a tumor-free margin specimen (sometimes impossible due to the extracompartimental tumor extension) is sometimes conflicting with the integrity of neurological functions and spine stability.

Methods

The surgical treatment of a huge multi-level chordoma of the thoracic spine with unusual extension is reported. Anteriorly, the tumor widely invaded the mediastinum and displaced the aorta; on the left side, it expanded in the subpleuric region; posteriorly, it was uncommonly distant 13 mm from the posterior wall.

Results

EnBloc resection is largely performed for primary bone tumors of the spine and many reports have been published concerning brilliant solutions to difficult issues of surgical anatomy. One of the major challenges is still the compatibility between oncological and functional requirements.

Conclusions

Oncological staging, careful imaging analysis, a multidisciplinary surgical team, and utilization of the most recent technologies like navigation and robotics have made an oncologically appropriate EnBloc resection of a multi-level chordoma of the thoracic spine possible without affecting the continuity of the spinal canal and without any involvement of its content by an original "L"-shaped osteotomy.