Spinal tumors can be caused by any form of cancer and can extend from other locations. Some spinal tumors can occur with genetic defects.

Symptoms depend on the size and location of the spinal tumor. Tumors in the spinal cord may cause symptoms affecting large portions of the body whereas tumors around the spinal cord may take several years to show any signs. Symptoms can include:

• Loss of sensations
• Muscle spasms
• Muscle weakness
• Fecal incontinence
• Back pain

To diagnose spinal tumors, your Newport Beach orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Todd Peters will perform a complete and thorough physical examination as well as a medical history check. He may also request X-Rays, MRIs, and CT scans to better assess your case.

X-Rays – A type of quick imaging process using electromagnectic waves to better show Dr. Peters bones of the body to pinpoint possible sources of pain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – This type of imaging uses radiology to show Dr. Peters the soft tissues of the body like muscles, disks, nerves, and the spinal cord.

Computerized tomography (CT) – CT scans are X-ray scans taken from various angles to create a cross-section of bones and soft tissues of the body.