At the Abramson Cancer Center, our clinicians and researchers are leading the way in clinical care and research for spinal tumors. By putting our experience to work, we offer the best possible treatment outcomes.
A Patient-Centered Approach to Your Care
Today there is more hope than ever for those with spinal tumors. Our goal is to provide the best chance for cure while preserving quality of life for each patient. The program's patient-centered approach means your team of physicians, therapists and nurses provide the care and support you and your family need.
Providing the Most Advanced Treatments Available
We offer the latest diagnostic and treatment advances for all types of spinal tumors and spinal column cancer including:
- Astrocytomas
- Ependymomas
- Hemangioblastomas
Spinal Column Cancer:
- Chordoma
- Chondrosarcoma
- Epidural hemangiomas
- Ewings sarcoma
- Giant Cell tumor
- Lipoma
- Nerve sheath tumor
- Osteoid Osteoma
- Osteblastoma
- Osteosarcoma
Our clinical trials program, which evaluates the effectiveness of new therapies, gives our patients access to the latest treatment advances. Many of the newest and most innovative approaches we utilize are not offered elsewhere in the region.
Additional treatment options include:
- Surgical Removal
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Robotic Assisted Spine Surgery
- Proton therapy
A Multidisciplinary Team of Experts
Our clinicians work collaboratively with Penn Neurosurgery and other disciplines across Penn Medicine to provide treatment for spinal tumors.
Our team offers:
- Multidisciplinary evaluation by physician specialists in neurology, neurosurgery, radiation oncology, neuro-oncology, neuropathology, neuroradiology, rehabilitation medicine, and neuro-psychiatry
- Care provided by nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants with advanced training and experience in treating spine tumors
- Patient Support Specialists who are experts in navigating complex health care situations and act as a consistent point of contact and a reliable source for support
- Cancer Counselors who work exclusively with cancer patients and their families
- Registered Dietitians who specialize in cancer nutrition and provide information based on sound nutritional therapies
Support Services for People with a Spinal Tumor
A spinal tumor diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming for patients, families and caregivers. At Penn, we offer support services to help you and your family cope through this difficult time.
At-home services
Our at-home services focus on meeting the health needs of homebound cancer patients and their families. These services enable cancer patients to maintain personal dignity and independence while receiving a variety of clinical and support services. This personalized approach actively encourages family involvement in a patient's case. Our nurses, social workers, dietitians, home health aides and specially trained volunteers are available to assist you at home. The home care staff works under the direction of your personal doctor who remains in charge of your medical care.
Counseling
The neuro-oncology program has a full-time social worker dedicated to providing support and assistance to you and your family. We provide counseling and are available to meet with you privately or in family sessions. Whenever possible, these sessions can be scheduled to coincide with doctor visits.
Support groups
The Abramson Cancer Center has one of the largest and longest-running tumor support groups in the region. Patients and families join once a month for two hours to discuss common issues and share experiences. It is a wonderful opportunity to gain support and knowledge while meeting others facing similar situations and feelings. The group also conducts open meetings for general support and provides opportunities for patient and family networking.