Intra-arterial Chemotherapy for Spinal Metastases

"Patients will undergo a minimally invasive procedure called spinal angiography. This procedure will identify the arteries feeding the tumor causing cord compression and will determine whether chemotherapy can be safely infused.~The chemotherapy will be infused via a tiny soft plastic tube (called microcatheter) at the tumor site over approximately 30 minutes.~The drug of choice is melphalan (trade name Alkeran) at a maximum dose of 16mg/m2, adjusted for white cell count, platelet count and renal function.~We will perform up to three intra-arterial chemotherapy treatments in 3-6 week intervals, based on the results of complete blood counts."