Spinal Cord Deformities Associated with Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumors

Intramedullary spinal cord tumors (IMSCTs) in the growing spine can cause deformity characterized by neurologic deficits, atypical curvature, or pain. Children with atypical spinal curvature should undergo MRI to exclude spinal cord pathology. In adults, deformity with atypical pain or neurologic deficit similarly warrants MRI to rule out intradural lesions. Resection of an IMSCT can also lead to postoperative spinal deformity. Laminoplasty has been used as an alternative to laminectomy, but its impact on long-term alignment remains uncertain. Close spinal surveillance is recommended after resection of spinal cord tumors, especially for young patients and those with preoperative deformity.