Vertebral metastases

Tumors cells no longer confined to an affected organ can be released through lymph and the blood stream, disseminate and form metastases. Metastases to the spine are frequent, may be painful and may occur in an isolated or multiple level manner, they may lead to structural failure of the spinal column and cause com­ pression of nerve structures resulting in progressive paralysis or in painful radi­ culopathies. The dinical evaluation as weIl as to tumor pathophysiology are weIl explai­ ned in two general chapters and then each specific primary tumor is analyzed in a specific chapter. The choice was made to offer a multidisciplinary approach. One may thus find similar aspects repeated in different chapters, yet this is ne ces­ sary since each part of this textbook can be used as a specific reference. I was impressed by the carefully detailed humane approach to the patient information with care for the patient's dignity. Truthful information is explained dearly enough to give all the elements the patient needs to understand and accept neces­ sary treatments with a responsible attitude. Previously, when confronted with a patient suffering from a debilitating spine metastasis of a malignant tumor it has been almost always too late to offer anything more than compassionate ineffica­ cy. Surgical treatment was balanced with life expectancy and then only rarely indicated in certain specific cases.

From the reviews:

"This is a comprehensive text that highlights the value of a multi-disciplinary approach for the treatment of vertebral metastases. ... it contains a wealth of information. ... In reading this book, one is impressed by the writer’s evident humane and holistic attitude to management of these patients. ... It is a valuable reference source that should act as a primer for all those involved in treatment of spinal metastatic disease. It is also a useful update for experienced clinicians in this field ... ." (M. Grevitt, The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, Vol. 87-B (2), February, 2005)

"The authors present a book on metastases of the spine. ... Major positive aspects of the book are the demonstration of the close cooperation between specialized centers in spinal surgery, oncology, and radiology. ... The book in its present form is a collection of all-round reference material on all aspects of vertebral metastases. It can be recommended as a reference for all physicians involved in the diagnosis and treatment of vertebral metastases as it provides valuable information in this special field." (A.K. Dixon and T.J. Vogl, European Radiology, Vol. 13 (5), 2003)

"The present book is the combined experience of two specialized centers in Bordeaux, one in spinal surgery and one in oncology, both involved in the aggressive and radical treatment of vertebral metasases. The book covers all aspects of vertebral metastases ... . The book is well written." (Kjell Jonsson, Acta Radiologica, Vol. 44 (2), 2003)

"This is a 300 page paperback book dealing exhaustively with the topic of vertebral metastases. It is aimed very much at the clinician dealing with patients with vertebral metastases ... . The main value of the book is as an exhaustive overview of all aspects of vertebral metastatic disease ... . I would think this book was a worthwhile read for those radiologists involved in surgical and therapeutic planning for patients with vertebral metastases ... ." (A Jackson, The British Journal of Radiology, Vol. 76, February, 2003)