Spinal Tumors or Metastases

How We Keep Your Treatment Accurate

• A customized support such as a Vac-Lok cushion helps reproduce your position.
• CT simulation maps the tumor and nearby organs.
• The physician defines the target and organs to protect; the dosimetrist and medical physicist create and verify the plan.
• Image guidance confirms tumor location and positioning before radiation is delivered.

Before the First Treatment

• Complete your consultation and insurance authorization.
• Complete CT simulation.
• The physician, dosimetrist and medical physicist design and verify the treatment plan. Planning and quality checks commonly take 7–10 business days.

During Treatment

• The radiation therapists will carefully position you in the same way as during simulation.
• Imaging confirms your position before each treatment is delivered.
• Side effects depend on the spinal region treated and may include temporary swallowing discomfort, bowel changes or fatigue. The team will monitor pain, strength, sensation, walking, and bowel or bladder changes.
• Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce swelling; take them exactly as instructed and follow any taper schedule.
• Radiation can reduce tumor pressure, relieve pain and help prevent further neurologic complications.
• You will meet with the doctor and nurse weekly during your treatment course to discuss any symptoms, review what to expect after treatment, and discuss your follow-up plan.
• Contact the care team immediately for new numbness, weakness, or another sudden change. Call 911 for a medical emergency.

After Treatment

Pain relief may continue to improve after radiation. Other effects and their duration depend on the spinal area treated, the radiation plan and your individual health. Report new or worsening weakness, numbness, walking difficulty, or bowel or bladder changes immediately.