Fig. 1

Images of X-rays and CT and MRI scans before operation. a, b Images of preoperative X-rays show unclear edge of left vertebral pedicle and posterior vertebra body of L4. c–h Preoperative CT images find massive calcifications within the mass. Images of f–h represent the level of L3, L4, and L5, respectively. i–k Images of preoperative MRI. Sagittal T1WI (i), T2WI (j), Gd-enhanced T1WI (k), and axial T2-WI (l–n) reveal a dumbbell tumor at the L3-5 level