Neurological function can be preserved with aggressive resection of malignant intramedullary spinal astrocytomas; however, motor decline may be observed in many cases. Radical resection of AA was associated with a trend of increased overall survival in nondisseminated AA cases. Radical surgery and radiotherapy of GBM was associated with poor survival, similar to historical controls of diagnostic biopsy and radiotherapy. A markedly shorter survival may be expected in cases in which AA disseminates along the neuraxis. Biopsy alone may not provide the best outcomes for patients with malignant spinal cord tumors.
Gross total resection of holocord and longitudinally extensive intramedullary spinal cord tumors can be achieved with preservation of long-term neurological function in many cases. Serial imaging is recommended to guide subsequent resection for tumor recurrence and stabilization of progressive spinal deformity.
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