Overview
Tumours affecting the spine may arise from primary bone conditions or as secondary spread from other cancers. Pain can develop due to weakening of the vertebra pressure on surrounding structures or inflammatory changes within the bone.
Spinal tumour ablation uses controlled energy to treat tumour tissue within the vertebra. By reducing tumour activity and irritation the procedure aims to relieve pain and improve comfort. In many cases ablation is combined with cement augmentation such as vertebroplasty to reinforce the weakened bone and reduce the risk of collapse.
This treatment is typically considered when pain persists despite medication radiotherapy or other conservative measures and when surgery is not appropriate.
Who This Treatment Helps
Spinal tumour ablation may be considered for people with
• Painful spinal tumours confirmed on imaging
• Vertebral lesions causing pain or instability
• Persistent spinal pain despite medication or radiotherapy
• Difficulty standing walking or sleeping due to pain
• Tumours not suitable for surgical removal
• Pain significantly affecting daily activities or quality of life
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and coordinate care with your oncology team where appropriate.
What Is Spinal Tumour Ablation
Spinal tumour ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses controlled heat cold or other energy sources to treat tumour tissue within the vertebra. The goal is to reduce pain by limiting tumour related irritation and weakening.
The procedure is performed using imaging guidance such as CT or fluoroscopy to ensure precise placement of the ablation probe. Local anaesthetic and sedation are commonly used although general anaesthetic may be considered in selected cases.
In many patients ablation is followed by cement augmentation to stabilise the treated vertebra and reduce the risk of fracture.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your consultant reviews imaging and confirms suitability
You are positioned comfortably on the procedure table
Local anaesthetic and sedation are administered
Imaging guidance is used to place the ablation probe
Controlled energy is applied to treat the tumour
Cement augmentation may be performed if required
You are monitored after the procedure
Depending on your condition this may be a day case or require short observation.
After the Procedure
It is normal to experience
• Mild soreness at the treatment site
• Temporary stiffness in the back
• Fatigue for a short period
Your consultant may advise
• Avoiding heavy lifting temporarily
• Gradual return to normal activity
• Continuing oncology treatments as planned
• Monitoring symptoms and reporting changes
Some patients notice early pain relief while others experience gradual improvement.
Benefits
• May reduce pain from spinal tumours
• Minimally invasive approach
• Can stabilise weakened vertebrae when combined with cement
• May reduce reliance on pain medication
• Can improve mobility and daily comfort
• Often suitable for patients not fit for surgery
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Possible risks include
• Temporary increase in pain
• Local bruising or soreness
• Infection rare
• Bleeding
• Allergic reaction to medications
• Cement leakage if augmentation is used usually minor
• Very rare nerve irritation
All risks are discussed during consultation.
Safety Note
Please inform your consultant about medications allergies diabetes pregnancy recent infections or cancer treatments. Coordination with your oncology team is essential. You may need someone to accompany you home depending on sedation used.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether spinal tumour ablation may be suitable for you.