Management of primary spinal chondrosarcoma: report of two cases causing cord compression

Chondrosarcomas are malignant tumors that rarely grow inside the spinal canal. Prognosis depends on histological features, patient's age and surgical margins free from tumor. Response to radio and chemotherapy is poor. Ideal treatment consists of total "en-block" resection, not always achievable due to limitation of location, compromise of stability and risk of inducing neurological deficits. Two cases of spinal chondrosarcoma causing cord compression are reported, located in the cervical and thoracic spine. Microsurgical technique consisted of initial debulking followed by removal of margins until limits free from tumor were obtained. Total resection was accomplished and neurological function improved in both cases. Follow-up has been seven and one year respectively, with no evidence of recurrence and preserved neurological functions. Association between chondrosarcoma and estrogen-dependent tumor has been confirmed in this report. Although "en-block" resection of a chondrosarcoma should be tried whenever possible, tumor fragmentation should be considered in difficult cases, as in the present report, in which a long period free from recurrence with good quality of life can be obtained.