The AOSpine Knowledge Forum (KF) Tumor has a keen interest in the clinical management and prognosis of primary spinal column tumors. Primary spinal column tumors are rare, heterogeneous, often aggressive and fatal, and have various treatment approaches. This group has developed a research strategy and model where the best available evidence is collected through an international collaborative network of spine oncology centers. It establishes treatment methods which improve patient survival and reduce morbidity with satisfactory quality of life.

Pioneering work through collaboration

The model consists of four stages: 1) planning, 2) recruitment, 3) retrospective collection/analysis, and 4) prospective collection. Stages 1 to 3 are complete, where a total of 1,495 tumors have been captured and diagnosed as one of 18 primary spinal column tumor histotypes. Data specific to each histotype is currently being analyzed and the outcomes are beginning to be disseminated at various international congresses and appear in well-known journals. One innovative and very exciting aspect of the retrospective analysis has been the linking of the clinical outcome of chordomas to their molecular analysis.  This pioneering work is established through collaboration with our pathologist colleagues in the molecular analysis of retrieved paraffin samples. Preliminary results our very encouraging in that specific genetic sequencing may predict prognosis and thus direct or modify treatment.

"It is only through rigorous investigation and multi-center collaborative efforts that we will be able to successfully develop new diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic methods for these patients. This model is allowing us to maximize our knowledge and is setting the stage to move prospectively, incorporating biobankingas a component." says Charles Fisher, Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada and Chairman of the KF Tumor.

To learn more about the model, please read the manuscript which was recently published in the Journal of Neurosurgery on September 5, 2014 and listen to the featured JNS Weekly Podcast: September 5, 2014.

Current treatment options and considerations for aneurysmal bone cysts have already been published online in the Journal of Neuro-Oncology in the July 2014 issue.

Please stay tuned for more results on the other primary spinal column tumor histotypes in the coming months.

For further information about Knowledge Forum activities, please visit our website here.

The AOSpine Davos Courses are offering participants an opportunity to individually tailor their course content depending on their specific clinical needs and wishes.  Participating surgeons are able to network with over 300 surgeons, with specialties across several pathologies, while still focusing on the topics which are most relevant to themselves and their careers.

This unique course concept was initially introduced at the Davos Courses in 2013 and was received with overwhelming praise and enthusiasm, from participants and faculty alike.

At the AOSpine Davos Courses 2014, the following ten, day-long, modules are on offer:

• Lumbar Degenerative Disease
• Cervical Trauma
• Infection in Spine Surgery
• Current Concepts in Deformity Treatment
• Prevention and Managing Complications
• Cervical Degenerative Disease
• Thoracolumbar Trauma
• Upper Cervical Spine
• The Aging Spine—Adult Deformity
• Solution for Complex Cases

Case based learning

The AOSpine Davos Courses have a case-based educational format that is specifically created to enhance participants' knowledge and skills in their daily practice. The use of real cases is a very powerful learning tool and much of the teachings are focused on small group discussions.

Discussion groups allow participants to use a range of skills that help embed and apply new knowledge and understanding. These include thinking, reasoning, explaining, and problem solving. Sharing opinions with a group in a structured discussion is a great method for participants to increase their understanding by reflecting on their experiences.

Expert faculty members

AOSpine has invited 65 expert faculty members, from all around the world, to teach at the Davos Courses. The faculty team will guide the interactive learning experience and participants will benefit through close interactions and expert opinions.

Register now

Join the AOSpine Davos Courses 2014 for an exceptional program, an exceptional faculty team and an exceptional learning experience. Please note that remaining places are limited, so don't delay in registering.

Register here!

All AOSpine members benefit from a 10% discount on the Davos Courses registration fee.

Become a member here.

Visit our website www.aospine.org/davoscourses