A young woman from Maryland is finding peace of mind after undergoing a pioneering surgery to remove a potentially life-threatening cancerous tumor. A surgical team at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) successfully extracted tumors entwined around her spinal cord using an innovative “transvolume” method, marking a first in spinal tumor removal.
Cara Flores, diagnosed with a chordoma—a rare bone tumor in her spine—was only 19 years old when she received her diagnosis. It all began when she experienced double vision at 18, prompting medical evaluations that led to this unsettling conclusion.
Chordomas are quite uncommon, with roughly 300 cases reported annually in the U.S. According to Dr. Labib, a neurosurgeon at UMMC, the tumor not only wrapped around her spinal cord but also invaded the vertebrae just below her skull, making the situation even more critical.
He expressed the risks involved: “The main concern was damaging the brainstem or spinal cord, which could lead to severe consequences like paralysis or even death.” Without intervention, the tumor would have continued to grow, putting intense pressure on her spinal cord, which could have very well been fatal.
The surgical approach involved a “giant corridor” created through the eye socket, allowing direct access to the tumor. Dr. Rabib described it as a “straight shot,” emphasizing how this unconventional route made an otherwise risky procedure feasible.
“It was terrifying learning about spinal cord tumors and brain tumors. Still, I am incredibly grateful that the doctors managed to remove them,” Flores recounted, expressing her relief post-surgery.
During the operation, Dr. Labib cooperated with Dr. Kalpesh Vakharia, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, who helped to remove parts of Flores’ eye socket and cheekbones for better access to the spinal area. The aim was to ensure there would be no visible scars and to make the surgery less traumatic for the patient. Post-tumor removal, Vakharia reconstructed her eye socket and cheeks using titanium and bone from her hip, respectively.
Dr. Vakharia found the experience remarkable, noting its uniqueness in surgical history. The approach safeguarded vital structures like the Eustachian tube and major blood vessels, preventing complications that could lead to speech or swallowing issues.
Flores had an additional tumor near the base of her brain, which was tackled separately through her skull and nose as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. She is currently undergoing radiation therapy to ensure any remaining cancer cells are eliminated.
“Kara is recovering well,” expressed Dr. Labib, clearly impressed by her resilience. “It’s inspiring to see her face challenges that many her age wouldn’t comprehend.” Despite some nerve damage affecting her left eye’s movement, Flores, who aspires to become a cosmetologist, is optimistic and determined.
She shared, “I remind myself to take it one day at a time, and I celebrate every small step as an achievement.” Looking ahead, UMMC plans to showcase the transvolume surgery technique to neurosurgeons globally during their fall training sessions.
“If there’s such a wide corridor for accessing these tumors, complete removal becomes possible. We anticipate more patients will benefit from this innovative surgery soon.”
