Does tumour removal surgery treat bone cancer?

The plan depends on the bone involved, the tumour's size and grade, nearby nerves or blood vessels, and whether it has spread. Surgery may remove the affected section while preserving the limb. Reconstruction with a prosthesis, bone graft or other method can help restore strength, but the best option depends on the site and expected function.

Some bone cancers are treated with chemotherapy or radiation before or after surgery. In other situations, an operation may need to remove more tissue, and rarely an amputation is discussed when safe tumour removal and useful limb function cannot be achieved together. A specialist sarcoma team should coordinate the decision.

Ask for review by an orthopaedic oncology or sarcoma team before arranging an operation. Discuss biopsy results, scans, the intended margin, reconstruction and rehabilitation. Ask how treatment could affect walking, lifting, sensation or joint movement. Follow instructions about activity and medicines, and tell the team about new pain, swelling or reduced movement.

Get urgent help for sudden severe bone pain, a new inability to use a limb, marked swelling, numbness, a cold or pale hand or foot, or breathing difficulty. After surgery, report fever, uncontrolled pain, wound drainage, increasing swelling or a sudden change in limb colour or sensation.

What type and grade of bone cancer is present? Can limb-sparing surgery remove it safely? What reconstruction is planned? Will chemotherapy or radiation be needed? What rehabilitation will support daily activities? How will scans monitor the treated area and lungs?