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Externalization of a soft tissue chordoma. Case report
Ernesto Sierra-Montenegro1, Gastón Sierra-Luzuriaga, César Carrilo-Védova
1Servicio de Coloproctología, Hospital del Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social, Guayaquil, Ecuador. gesierra21@yahoo.com
Cirugia Y Cirujanos
|January 11, 2011
Summary
This case report details a rare externalized sacral chordoma, a slow-growing tumor originating from the notochord. Early diagnosis and surgical resection are crucial for managing this uncommon spinal tumor.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
- Radiology
Background:
- Chordomas are rare, slow-growing tumors originating from the primitive notochord, most commonly found in the sacrococcygeal region.
- These tumors predominantly affect males, with an average age of diagnosis around 61 years.
- This study focuses on a unique presentation of a chordoma externalizing in the sacral region.
Observation:
- A 62-year-old female presented with a 4-year history of sacral discomfort and a progressively enlarging intergluteal mass.
- Proctological examination revealed a 6 cm, hard, painless, midsacral tumor located 3 cm from the anal canal.
- Initial X-ray of the coccyx showed no abnormalities.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention achieved total excision of the sacral tumor with primary closure.
- Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of chordoma.
- The tumor presented as an externalized mass in the sacral region, a rare clinical manifestation.
Implications:
- Chordomas, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of persistent lower back or coccygeal pain, especially with a palpable mass.
- Diagnostic imaging, including X-ray, CT, and MRI, is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Wide surgical resection remains the primary treatment modality for chordoma.