Insights From the AO Spine Knowledge Forum Tumor Registries: Advancing the Understanding and Management of Primary Spine Tumors Through International Multicentric Collaboration. A Narrative Review

Journal article : Review

Study DesignNarrative Review.ObjectivesTo summarize the scientific contributions generated from the AO Spine Knowledge Forum Tumor (AOSKFT) databases, focusing on primary spine tumors, and highlight key findings, research trends, and future directions.MethodsData from the Primary Tumor Retrospective (PT-Retro) and Primary Tumor Research Outcome Network (PTRON) registries were analyzed. The nineteen studies included were peer-reviewed manuscripts focused on primary spine tumors, excluding abstracts, book chapters, systematic reviews, and metastatic studies.ResultsThe PT-Retro registry compiled data from 1495 patients across 18 primary tumor histologies, offering insights into recurrence, survival, and treatment paradigms. Key findings emphasize the importance of Enneking-appropriate (EA) resection in improving survival and reducing recurrence in tumors such as chordoma, chondrosarcoma, and osteosarcoma. Genetic markers, including hTERT promoter mutations and rs2305089 SNP, were linked to prognosis in specific histologies. Benign tumors, such as giant cell tumors and aneurysmal bone cysts, demonstrated variable outcomes with different surgical approaches and selective arterial embolization.ConclusionsThe AOSKFT registries have significantly advanced knowledge in primary spine tumor management, emphasizing preoperative staging, surgical margins, and multidisciplinary approaches. International, multicentric registries are essential for studying rare diseases like primary spine tumors, enabling robust data collection, improved statistical power, and broader applicability of findings across diverse clinical settings. Ongoing prospective data collection through PTRON will further refine evidence-based care for these rare and challenging conditions.

Authors: Cecchinato, R; Tobert, DG; Barzilai, O; Bettegowda, C; Boriani, S

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Journal: Global Spine Journal
• Pages: 21925682261416419
• Publication date: 2026-01-09
• DOI: 10.1177/21925682261416419
• EISSN: 2192-5690
• ISSN: 2192-5682
• Pmid: 41512234
• Language: English
• Keywords: Surgical Margins; Neoplasm Recurrence; Registries; Survival analysis; Outcome Assessment; Spinal Neoplasms
• Subtype: Review