Metastases in the cervical spine from primary head and neck cancers: current concepts of diagnosis and management

Abstract Vertebral metastases from primary head and neck cancers are uncommon, and so there are no clear guidelines about management. The spinal cord can be compressed by a vertebral fracture or invasion of a tumour, and may present as an oncological and spinal emergency. The goals of treatment are...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:British journal of oral & maxillofacial surgery 2017-02, Vol.55 (2), p.168-172
Main Authors: Colbert, S.D, Ramakrishna, S, Harvey, J.R, Brennan, P.A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
cervical spinal metastasis
Cervical Vertebrae
Clinical Decision-Making
Dentistry
head and neck
Head and Neck Neoplasms - pathology
Humans
oral
Spinal Neoplasms - diagnosis
Spinal Neoplasms - secondary
Spinal Neoplasms - therapy
squamous cell carcinoma
Surgery
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Summary:Abstract Vertebral metastases from primary head and neck cancers are uncommon, and so there are no clear guidelines about management. The spinal cord can be compressed by a vertebral fracture or invasion of a tumour, and may present as an oncological and spinal emergency. The goals of treatment are to relieve pain and maintain neurological function. However, surgical treatments in this group of patients have not been defined, and primary operative treatment of spinal metastases remains controversial. Here we discuss their contemporary management. Surgical options should be considered for treatment to achieve stability of the spine, relieve pain, and preserve neurological function in certain cases.
ISSN:0266-4356
1532-1940
DOI:10.1016/j.bjoms.2016.10.012