The role of minimally invasive techniques in the management of spinal neoplastic disease: a review.

: This review article provides a general overview of the role of minimal access spine surgery (MASS) in the context of spinal neoplastic disease. Illustrative cases included outline advances in new techniques with a focus on improved patient outcome. The article challenges the traditional indication for surgical decompression by considering the objective of better local control of tumor. MASS can be used to improve focused environments in which the delivery of a higher and safer dose of radiation can be accomplished. This combination of treatment has the purpose of better overall survival for some cancer patients by positively influencing local control. The role of surgical intervention in the context of managing cancer patients is continuously being redefined for this challenging population. The modern surgeon must stay abreast of all advances in their field in order to provide the best care for their patients.