[Diagnosis and operative treatment of spinal metastases]

Metastases remarkable outnumber primary tumours of the spine. Approximately 70% of all tumours of the vertebral column are metastatic. Because of high incidence, fatal consequences and difficulties of treatment they present one of the most difficult problems in spinal pathology. The main purpose of operative treatment is prevention of para- or tetraplegia and pain control to extend patient's ability for independent live. Investigations contributing to the diagnosis and operative options are considered on the basis of authors' experience.