Chondrosarcoma of the spine

Involvement of the spine by chondrosarcoma is rare. Three recent cases involving the cervical with or without extension to the thoracic spine are reported. Detailed radiologic investigations to evaluate the extent of the disease are essential to management. Computerized axial tomography and angiography were performed in 1 case and were extremely helpful. Surgical resection of the lesion is the only currently effective method of treatment, but long-term survival figures are not good.