Patient Information Resources


Long Island Spine Specialists, P.C.
763 Larkfield Road
2nd Floor
Commack, NY 11725
Ph: (631) 462-2225
Fax: (631) 462-2240






Child Orthopedics
General
Pain Management
Spine - Cervical
Spine - General
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic

« Back

Could you help me think my way through a medical problem? I have lung cancer that has spread to the bones of my neck. I know my life expectancy is limited. Should I even bother having surgery to stabilize my spine? I could be gone in 6 months.

Treatment decisions for many cancer patients can be very complex. It's difficult to predict the exact prognosis. We don't always know how long someone's life will last. And quality of life (not just quantity) is an important factor.

Tumors to the cervical spine (neck) can be very dangerous. They can cause spinal cord compression. Pain, numbness, weakness, and muscle atrophy may develop. And in the worse case scenario, paralysis is possible.

Many surgeons suggest surgery to stabilize the spine is advised. Even with a limited life expectancy, the chances of serious problems developing from an unstable neck is not worth the risk.

Some doctors are using a new model to help them make these decisions. It's called the NOMS framework. It combines the neurologic status (N) of the patient with the oncologic (O), mechanical (M), and systemic conditions (S). So, as you described yourself, it sounds like you are having neurologic symptoms (N) and your neck is unstable (M).

The next step is to look at your oncologic status. What cancer treatment have you had so far (O)? How well has it worked? If you have surgery to stabilize your spine, would you be able to handle more radiation therapy or chemotherapy (S)?

Discuss all the options with your doctors. Find out what treatment is possible. And make a decision weighing in all the factors from the NOMS model. Keep in mind quality of life as a deciding factor, too.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.