The Management of Spinal Metastases from Renal Cell Carcinoma

INTRODUCTION: Osseous metastases occur in 50% of patients with renal cell carcinoma; of these, 15% occur in the spine. The treatment options for spinal metastases secondary to renal cell carcinoma are limited. This paper considers the current management options available for spinal metastases secondary to renal cell carcinoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A review of four patients with spinal metastases secondary to renal cell carcinoma. RESULTS: The presentation of four cases highlighting the current management options for spinal metastases secondary to renal cell carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS: Historically, spinal metastases from renal cell carcinoma have been poorly managed; however, as the treatment of the primary disease improves, better treatment of the secondary disease is needed. Cement augmentation, used alone for prophylactic stabilisation or in conjunction with a posterior decompression and fixation, provides a useful addition in the management of these patients optimising their chance to remain ambulant, continent, and pain-free.