New York, NY Tumors

Expert care for spinal tumors—delivered with precision, compassion, and innovation.

Advanced Tumor Management at NYSI Manhattan

A spinal tumor diagnosis can be daunting—but you don’t have to face it alone. At New York Spine Institute’s Manhattan office, our team offers expert care for both benign and malignant spinal tumors with a multidisciplinary approach that prioritizes your safety, mobility, and long-term health.

Located in the heart of NYC, our practice brings together world-class diagnostics, surgical expertise, and patient-first support—all in one convenient Midtown location. Whether your tumor is primary, metastatic, or part of a broader oncologic diagnosis, we’re here to help you navigate next steps with clarity and confidence.

Understanding Spinal Tumors

Spinal tumors are abnormal growths located in or around the spine. They may be:

Benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous)
Primary, originating in the spine, or secondary, spreading from cancers like breast, lung, or prostate
Intramedullary, within the spinal cord
Intradural-extramedullary, inside the spinal canal but outside the cord
Extradural, outside the canal, often in the vertebrae

These tumors can develop in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), or sacral (pelvis) regions of the spine and may lead to significant symptoms as they grow.

Symptoms That Signal a Problem

Spinal tumors can impact nerves, bone, and overall function. Common symptoms include:

Constant or worsening back/neck pain—especially at night
Radiating pain, tingling, or numbness in the limbs
Muscle weakness, balance issues, or falls
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Fatigue or unexplained weight loss

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, early diagnosis is key to preserving nerve function and preventing irreversible damage.

Treatment Options for Spinal Tumors

Your plan will depend on tumor size, location, symptoms, and whether the tumor is cancerous. Options may include:

Non-Surgical Care

Active monitoring for slow-growing tumors
Radiation therapy to shrink or stabilize growths
Chemotherapy, when part of a systemic cancer treatment plan

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be recommended if the tumor is causing:

Neurological deficits
Spinal instability
Intractable pain

Our NYC spine surgeons offer:

Decompression surgery to relieve nerve pressure
Spinal stabilization, including instrumentation or fusion
Kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty to restore strength in weakened vertebrae
Embolization, when tumors are highly vascular

All procedures aim to protect neurological function while improving your quality of life.

Why NYSI Manhattan for Spinal Tumor Care?

At New York Spine Institute, we combine the skill of a nationally respected surgical team with the access and responsiveness New Yorkers expect. Our Manhattan location provides high-level care with the warmth of a private practice.

What sets us apart:

Led by Dr. Alexandre B. de Moura, recognized across the U.S. for complex spine surgery
Full integration of diagnostics, surgery, pain management, and rehab under one roof
A multilingual care team fluent in Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, German, and Russian
Proven success in revision surgeries and high-risk tumor cases
Patient-first approach focused on long-term comfort, safety, and independence

Begin Your Treatment Journey in NYC

If you or a loved one is facing a spinal tumor, trust the experts at New York Spine Institute in Manhattan to deliver comprehensive care rooted in excellence and compassion.

Call today to schedule a consultation at our 345 East 37th Street office. We're here to provide the answers and expert care you need—every step of the way.

Tumor FAQs

What is the difference between primary and metastatic spinal tumors?

Primary spinal tumors originate directly within the tissues or bones of the spine. Metastatic (secondary) spinal tumors start as cancer in another part of the body—such as the breast, prostate, or lung—and spread to the spine.

What are the most common symptoms of a spinal tumor?

The hallmark symptom is persistent back or neck pain that worsens at night or when lying down. Other symptoms include numbness, tingling, muscle weakness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, and loss of bowel or bladder control.

How are spinal tumors classified based on location?

They are grouped into three main categories: Extradural (outside the thin membrane covering the spinal cord, usually in the bone), Intradural-Extramedullary (inside the membrane, but outside the cord tissue), and Intramedullary (growing directly inside the spinal cord).

How do doctors diagnose a spinal tumor?

Diagnosis typically involves a neurological exam followed by advanced imaging—primarily an MRI with contrast, or a CT scan. A tissue biopsy or blood tests may also be performed to identify the exact cell type.

Can a noncancerous (benign) spinal tumor still be dangerous?

Yes. Even noncancerous tumors can compress fragile nerve roots or the spinal cord within the tight physical space of the spinal column, leading to permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or spinal instability if left untreated.

When should back pain prompt urgent medical evaluation for a tumor?

Seek prompt medical care if back pain persists at night, does not improve with rest, worsens over time, or is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, progressive leg weakness, or sudden changes in bowel/bladder function.