Benign Spinal Tumors

Benign spinal tumors are non-cancerous growths that develop along the spine or spinal cord. Although they are not malignant, their location within or near critical neurological structures can lead to serious complications, including pain, neurological deficits, spinal deformity, and paralysis if left untreated. In the context of Bangladesh, many children with spinal tumors remain undiagnosed or improperly treated, largely due to lack of access to pediatric neurosurgical services and delayed neuroimaging. Fortunately, with rising awareness and modern neurosurgical facilities at NINS and Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre, many such conditions are now being treated effectively under the leadership of Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman. Common Types of Benign Spinal Tumors in Children Benign spinal tumors can occur in various locations: Intradural-Extramedullary: Outside the spinal cord but inside the dura Intramedullary: Within the spinal cord itself Extradural: Outside the dura, often involving bone Most common benign spinal tumors in children: Lipomas – Fat-containing tumors that may be associated with spinal dysraphism Dermoid and Epidermoid Cysts – Often congenital, located near the lower spine Arachnoid Cysts – CSF-filled sacs that may compress the spinal cord Spinal Meningiomas – Rare but possible, especially in neurofibromatosis patients Neurofibromas and Schwannomas – Nerve sheath tumors often associated with NF1 Osteoid Osteoma and Osteoblastoma – Benign bone tumors that can cause scoliosis and pain Eosinophilic Granuloma (Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis) – Can affect vertebral bodies in children Gangliogliomas and Pilocytic Astrocytomas – Intramedullary benign tumors Each of these tumors may behave differently but can result in progressive neurological compromise if not detected early. Symptoms of Benign Spinal Tumors in Children The symptoms vary based on tumor type and location, but early signs can be subtle and often overlooked: Back pain, especially persistent or worsening at night Scoliosis or abnormal spinal curvature Limping, unsteady gait, or frequent falls Weakness in arms or legs Loss of bladder or bowel control Numbness or tingling in limbs Delayed milestones or walking difficulties in toddlers Visible swelling or lump on the back (in superficial tumors) In Bangladesh, such symptoms are often attributed to general weakness, vitamin deficiencies, or orthopedic issues, delaying proper neurological evaluation. Diagnostic Work-up Early and accurate diagnosis is essential to prevent permanent neurological damage. At Dr. Nafaur Rahman’s center, a structured diagnostic approach is followed: Investigations Include: MRI of the Spine with Contrast – The gold standard for detecting tumor type, size, location, and cord involvement CT Scan – Useful for tumors involving bone (e.g., osteoid osteoma) X-ray Spine – Can show scoliosis or bone destruction Whole Spine Imaging – Important for multifocal or syndromic tumors (e.g., NF1) Tumor Markers and Biopsy – In selected cases Neurophysiological Tests – Pre- and post-operative assessment of motor and sensory function Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Benign Spinal Tumors While some tumors can be monitored, surgical excision is often necessary to relieve spinal cord compression and prevent long-term disability. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman specializes in precision microsurgery and child-safe spinal procedures. Surgical Objectives: Total or subtotal tumor resection Spinal cord decompression Preservation of neurological function Spinal stabilization, if necessary Minimally invasive techniques, whenever feasible Common Procedures: Laminectomy or Laminoplasty – To access and remove the tumor Microsurgical tumor dissection – Under high magnification to protect nerves Endoscopic-assisted removal – For selected cystic lesions Spinal instrumentation – In cases involving bone tumors or instability Tethered cord release – If associated with lipomas or dermoid cysts “The success of pediatric spinal tumor surgery lies in balancing tumor removal with functional preservation. We follow global protocols while addressing each child's unique spinal anatomy.” — Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Postoperative Care & Long-Term Management ICU monitoring immediately post-surgery Early mobilization with physiotherapy Bladder and bowel training, if required Regular follow-up MRI scans Rehabilitation and neurodevelopmental support Coordination with pediatric oncologists for rare cases needing adjuvant therapy Pediatric Spinal Tumors in Bangladesh – Bridging the Gap The major obstacles in managing benign spinal tumors in Bangladesh include: Delayed diagnosis due to low awareness Limited access to pediatric MRI in rural regions Lack of pediatric neurosurgery expertise in many districts Sociocultural stigma about spinal surgery in children Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman addresses these issues by: Providing free consultations in outreach clinics Conducting training for general physicians and orthopedists Performing safe and effective spinal surgeries in children using advanced tools Offering cost-effective follow-up packages for long-term care Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman? Pioneer in pediatric spinal tumor surgery in Bangladesh Based at NINS, the country's leading neurosurgical hospital Known for accurate diagnosis and evidence-based management Excellent outcomes in spinal cord tumor removal and deformity correction Combines neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, and spinal orthopedics under one roof Contact for Pediatric Spinal Tumor Consultation Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery, NINS Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre For Serial/Appointment: 01912988182 | 01607033535 Website: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com