Description
This transcript captures a virtual congress session on the modern management of metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) led by Mr. Rajat Verma, a consultant spine surgeon and education lead for the British Scoliosis Society. The session begins with an introduction by Rohit Shetty, outlining the importance of early detection and intervention in cases of MSCC, which can lead to irreversible paralysis if unaddressed. Mr. Verma emphasizes that the thoracic spine is the most frequent site for metastasis, with common origins including breast, prostate, and lung cancers.
The discussion delves into how symptoms may manifest due to spinal cord compression, such as severe back pain, radicular pain, and neurological deficits. Verma reviews diagnostic guidelines, emphasizing the necessity for quick imaging via an MRI scan if MSCC is suspected, preferably within 24 hours, and recommends immediate referral to spinal specialists.
The session addresses therapeutic options, including the critical role of corticosteroids for reducing inflammation and the necessity of radiotherapy and surgical intervention tailored based on individual patient circumstances. Surgery may involve stabilizing the spine to mitigate risks of further complications, with evidence suggesting combined surgery and radiotherapy yield better outcomes compared to radiotherapy alone.
Mr. Verma concludes by underlining the need for a multidisciplinary approach in managing MSCC, considering various prognostic factors such as the type of primary cancer, the patient's ability to walk pre-treatment, and the presence of multiple metastases. The discourse wraps up with an invitation for further queries and emphasizes the critical takeaway: timely and appropriate treatment can greatly influence outcomes in MSCC patients.