Excision of thoracic vertebral chondrosarcoma after spinal decompression

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Oncology
• Spinal Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery

Background:

• Chondrosarcomas are malignant tumors arising from cartilage cells.
• Thoracic vertebral tumors are rare and can present with complex symptoms.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing spinal tumors.

Observation:

• A 44-year-old male presented with an abnormal chest shadow.
• Initial biopsy revealed a chondral tumor of the thoracic vertebrae.
• Delayed presentation led to neurological deficits including walking disorder, numbness, and vesicorectal dysfunction.

Findings:

• The chondral tumor progressed over five years, causing spinal cord compression.
• Tumor recurrence and growth were observed, involving the aorta and chest wall (ribs 4-5).
• Histopathological diagnosis confirmed low-grade chondrosarcoma of the thoracic vertebrae.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of vigilant monitoring for spinal tumors.
• Multidisciplinary surgical approaches, including aortic stenting and en bloc resection, are vital for complex thoracic vertebral tumors.
• Complete tumor excision is essential for managing chondrosarcoma recurrence and preventing further complications.