Our meeting chair is Kate Lacey the Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance Urgent Cancer Care Lead and AO SRG Lead for The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.

She is also a UKAOS Board Member and MSCC Group Chair.

A Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) Pathway for Cancer Patients
Presenting with Suspected Spinal Metastases and Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression.

                                WEDS 17TH JUNE 2026  12:30 to 13:30  

                                              MEETING LINK HERE

Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) occurs when the spinal cord or cauda equina is compressed by vertebral collapse or tumour growth, leading to potential loss of neurological function and requiring urgent oncological intervention. Early recognition, rapid referral, and timely management within 24 hours are critical to preserving spinal function. Treatment options include radiotherapy, systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or hormone therapy, surgery and orthosis, all aimed at preventing neurological deterioration and relieving symptoms.
Many patients suspected of MSCC have spinal metastases without cord compromise or non-malignant degenerative spinal conditions; collaborative care between MSCC and other specialist services is often necessary, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities. Increasingly, patients may show radiological signs of impending MSCC but have no neurological issues or instability; swift clinical assessment is essential to guide treatment decisions and avoid delays.
The updated NICE guidance1 highlights emerging opportunity for ambulatory care in some patients. Most patients with suspected or confirmed MSCC can be mobilised and treated via pathways that incorporate same day emergency care (SDEC). For confirmed cases, many are     suitable for same day coordinated diagnosis and transfer for definitive treatment.                                               

This meeting will introduce the Same Day Emergency care pathway that may used to support same day diagnosis and recognise when ambulatory patient management may be the best option for patient care.