Extra Compartmental Chordoma of Mobile Spine (L3) in a 71-year-old Male: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Abstract Chordomas of the mobile spine are rare compared to its occurrence in the sacrococcygeal and Clival regions. The treatment modalities include wide surgical resection with or without postsurgery radiation/proton beam therapy. Here, we report a rare case of extra compartmental chordoma of the mobile spine (L3 vertebra) in a 71-year-old male. The patient presented with intractable back and leg pain and difficulty in walking. He was evaluated and managed surgically with complete piecemeal resection through simultaneous posterior and retroperitoneal approaches. He was further managed with radiotherapy after the surgery. The patient is leading a pain-free, independent life postoperatively. This case is being reported for its rarity, complexity of management, and the results. Chordoma of the mobile spine can be managed surgically with total removal of the tumor. Since the whole compartment cannot be resected surgically in the spine (involvement of epidural space and psoas muscle in this case), piecemeal removal with adjuvant therapy is the treatment of choice. The quality of life of the patient is significantly improved after the treatment.