Spinal Oncology
Chair: W. Christopher Newman, MD, and Pascal Zinn, MD, PhD
Members: James Bayley, MD, Christopher Alvarez-Breckenridge, MD, PhD, Justiss Kallos, MD, John Shin, MD, Nam Tram, MD, Phd, and Nicholas Szerlip, MD
Spine oncology is growing as its own important space within neuro-oncology. Numerous advances in surgical techniques, radiation oncology and medical oncology combined with the unique considerations of spinal instrumentation in the oncologic population as well as advanced surgical approaches to lesions within the spinal cord and/or intradural spaces have created a field in which advanced study has become increasingly important to deliver high-quality care. To meet the demands of this growing patient population, we plan to build on the efforts of the previous co-chairs of the Spine Committee and work to find sustainable funding for awards recognizing research within the spine oncology space at the CNS and AANS meetings for research submitted to the Tumor Section. This will help to foster and recognize meaningful research in the field of spine oncology.
We recognize that building a practice focused on spine oncology requires specialized training. To this end, we plan to develop a webinar series to help potential applicants understand the programs with a focus on spine oncology, what they offer and what residents can expect to learn from additional time spent in these fellowships. We also plan to create a webinar series of interviews with spine oncologists discussing how to navigate building a clinical and academic practice, navigating organized neurosurgical opportunities and other issues pertinent to those considering a career focused on spine oncology.
In addition to these efforts, we acknowledge the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in spine oncology. We intend to promote cross-disciplinary partnerships between spine surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, electrophysiologists and rehabilitation experts for spinal and spinal cord-related advanced recovery. This all to ensure a holistic approach to patient care. By fostering these collaborations, we hope to enhance treatment outcomes and provide comprehensive care tailored to the complex needs of our spine oncology patients.
Finally, we recognize the necessity of patient-centered care in this growing field. As we move forward, our efforts will also include initiatives aimed at improving patient education and support, ensuring that those diagnosed with spinal tumors have access to the best possible information, treatment options and resources to support them throughout their care journey.