Also known as: Tumor in the spine
Isaac, a hospital employee, has a massive hemangioblastoma extending from T2 to T7 that has taken over the blood supply. The tumor is the central focus of the episode, with Derek performing a 23+ hour surgery to remove it without cutting the spinal cord. The surgery is deemed inoperable by others but Derek attempts it anyway.
Also known as: Skin cancer that has spread
Referenced throughout the episode as Izzie misses her scheduled IL-2 immunotherapy treatment, causing Alex and Cristina concern. Her cancer treatment is a recurring subplot affecting multiple characters.
Briefly mentioned as Alex having spent the night sewing together a hang glider's intestines. Minor background case establishing Alex's workload.
Also known as: Bone cancer
Referenced as a case Isaac previously diagnosed correctly from an X-ray, demonstrating his diagnostic skills. Not a current patient but mentioned to establish Isaac's medical expertise.
Also known as: Large abdominal tumor
Mark assigns Cristina to a redo retroperitoneal sarcoma surgery (15-hour case) to keep her occupied and away from Derek's unauthorized surgery. Used as a plot device to manage OR scheduling conflicts.