Vertebral Hemangioma

What Is a Vertebral Hemangioma?

During MRI or CT scans, a spinal hemangioma is often discovered incidentally. Also known as cavernous hemangioma or hemangiomatous angioma, hemangiomas are the most common benign spinal tumors, accounting for 10-12% of all spinal tumors.

Only 1.2% of hemangiomas cause symptoms, meaning most cases have no clinical significance. Usually, patients have only one spinal hemangioma, though multiple hemangiomas can sometimes be present.

Do I Need Regular Monitoring for a Spinal Hemangioma?

No. Hemangiomas are benign growths and, in most cases, do not increase in size. MRI or CT scans are only necessary if new or unusual symptoms develop.

How Can I Know if My Hemangioma Is Causing My Symptoms?

Since back pain has many complex causes, determining whether a hemangioma is responsible requires consultation with a neurosurgeon.

Possible Symptoms of Hemangiomas

Although hemangiomas rarely cause health issues, potential symptoms include:

• Pain
• Vertebral fractures – A hemangioma can weaken the vertebra, making it more prone to breaking.
• Neurological deficits – If the hemangioma grows into the spinal canal, it may affect nerve function, leading to neurological impairments.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a symptomatic spinal hemangioma, a neurosurgeon consultation is necessary. We are happy to help identify the best possible treatment approach for your case.

• If an in-person consultation is not possible, we also provide remote consultations via video call. You can schedule an appointment electronically, by phone, or via email.

What Are the Treatment Options for Symptomatic Hemangiomas?

A specialist can help determine the best treatment based on your individual case. Common spinal hemangioma treatments include:

• Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty – Techniques that differ in technical details but involve injecting medical cement into the vertebra under X-ray guidance to stabilize the hemangioma.
• Radiation Therapy – Targeted radiation triggers fibrous tissue growth, gradually closing the hemangioma. Pain relief occurs over months to years.
• Embolization – "Sealing" the hemangioma using special medical adhesive, injected into the supplying blood vessel (if applicable).
• Surgical Removal – Recommended for symptomatic hemangiomas that do not respond to other treatments.

Considering Surgery?

You can review patient testimonials from both Latvia and international patients who have undergone treatment with us.

Our clinical base, where surgeries and procedures are performed, is the modern and well-equipped Aiwa Clinic.

If you're preparing for surgery, you likely have many questions. You can find answers to frequently asked questions about surgical preparation here.