Chair: Nicholas Szerlip, MD
Co-Chair: Nam D. Tran, MD
Member: John Shin, MD

Spinal oncology is emerging as a distinct, yet vital subset of neuro-oncology. With advancements in radiation and systemic therapies, we expect to see longer survival and, with that, increasing incidence of skeletal-related complications from metastatic disease. Meeting the growing demands of spinal oncology requires not only innovative research and education, but also improving quality of care and supplying a pipeline of skilled spine surgeons. We began our efforts last year with industry-funded awards for research in spine oncology with the hopes of emphasizing more focus in the medical community and attracting brighter minds into the field. We plan on securing funding for an annual award.

We recognize that spinal oncology requires highly-specialized training. Traditionally, this training is not universal among neuro-oncology fellowship programs and institution dependent. Working with the CAST accreditation team, we modified the curriculum to allow for spinal oncology as a subspecialty focus within neuro-oncology. These new requirements will take effect the 2023-24 academic year.

Lastly, we wish to ensure that budding spine oncologists are equipped with the appropriate tools to build their practice and have access to experienced mentors. We plan to roll out a webinar series and podcast on “Building a Spine Oncology practice.”