I'm in a bit of a panic here. X-rays just showed that my breast cancer has metastasized to the bone. So far, they've only found the cancer in the bones of the neck. The surgeon thinks radiation and then removing two of the bones is all that's needed. How in the world will I hold up my head without all the bones in my neck?

Your concern is understandable and well-founded. Radiation is used first to shrink the tumor. This can help preserve the remaining bone and the surrounding tissue.

Once the bone is removed, the surgeon uses metal plates, screws, and titanium cages to support the spine. This is called spinal fixation with instrumentation. The cages used are round or cylindrical in shape. They can be inserted wherever the disc and/or vertebral bone is removed. This means you shouldn't lose any height after the excision.

Some of this may depend on how many and how much of the bone is removed. Neurosurgeons and plastic surgeons work together to minimize any disfigurement. Often, except for a scar, there is no outward sign that any bone has been removed.

It may be best to make an appointment with your surgeon to discuss the operation. Find out what are your options. Ask about both possible and likely complications or problems that can develop. Make a list of questions so that you don't forget to ask what you want to know before surgery.