Study Comparing Surgical Outcomes of Spinal Cord Glioma Removal Using the Dorsolateral Sulcus Versus Posterior Median Sulcus Approaches

What this Trial Is About

Spinal cord gliomas are rare malignant tumors that develop within the spinal cord, often appearing around age 35 and slightly more common in males. These tumors typically cause symptoms like axial pain and tend to grow in a lateral, infiltrative pattern. Treatments are limited mainly to surgery, and the choice of surgical approach can affect neurological outcomes and quality of life. This research compares two surgical methods to find the best approach for tumor removal and patient recovery. The study compares the dorsolateral sulcus DLS approach and the traditional posterior median sulcus PMS approach for spinal cord tumor removal. The DLS approach is thought to better preserve neurological function by avoiding critical midline structures, while the PMS approach offers direct midline access but risks more damage. Patients with laterally located tumors, confirmed by imaging and pathology, undergo surgery via one of these two methods. Outcomes will be assessed over time to evaluate pain, neurological function, quality of life, tumor removal extent, and survival. Participants will be evaluated before surgery and followed up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery with clinical exams, imaging, and questionnaires like the Visual Analog Scale for pain and SF-36 for quality of life. Neurological function is measured using established grading scales, and tumor progression and survival are monitored up to 24 and 36 months, respectively. The study aims to determine which surgical approach best balances effective tumor removal with preservation of neurological health.

A Registry-Based Cohort Study on the Clinical Outcomes of Spinal Cord Glioma Resection Via the Dorsolateral Sulcus Approach