A rare and aggressive form of thyroid cancer that had spread to the spine has been successfully treated at MGM Cancer Institute. The 55-year-old patient, who experienced worsening back pain and numbness in his legs, was diagnosed with a complex retrosternal thyroid tumour that had metastasised to the spinal column.
Such cases, in which a retrosternal thyroid tumour spreads to the spine at the initial presentation, account for less than one per cent of thyroid cancer cases worldwide.
The patient sought medical attention after several weeks of increasing lower back pain and weakness in both legs. Investigations revealed a highly vascular tumour involving the thoracic vertebrae and causing significant compression of the spinal cord. Further diagnostic evaluation traced the spinal growth to a primary thyroid cancer extending behind the breastbone into the chest cavity. Notably, the tumour had developed without obvious swelling or symptoms in the neck.
Eight-Hour Surgery to Prevent Paralysis
Given the risk of permanent neurological damage and paralysis, a multidisciplinary surgical team undertook an eight-hour, two-stage operation led by surgical oncologist Dr. S. Srivishnu and spine surgeon Dr. G. Vijayaraghavan.
The procedure involved removing the thyroid gland and regional lymph nodes through a total thyroidectomy. The team then performed a D2–D5 thoracic laminectomy to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, followed by stabilisation of the affected spinal segment using permanent implants.
Patient Recovers After Complex Procedure
The patient responded well to the surgery and was discharged within three days. He is now scheduled to undergo radioiodine therapy to address the remaining cancer deposits in the spine.
The successful treatment highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and coordinated surgical intervention in managing rare cancers with spinal involvement. It also demonstrates the role of multidisciplinary expertise in treating complex cases while protecting neurological function and improving patient outcomes.
(Photo credit: mgmcancerinstitute.in)