What should you know about osteosarcoma surgery?

The surgeon plans the operation from MRI and other scans, considering the tumour's position, nearby nerves and blood vessels, and the joint or bone segment involved. Limb-sparing surgery may be possible, but the safest approach depends on whether the tumour can be removed fully while preserving useful function. Reconstruction can use an implant, bone graft or another technique. In some situations, removal of part or all of a limb is discussed.

Ask the surgical team to explain the planned margin, reconstruction, hospital stay and rehabilitation milestones. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery to treat cells beyond the visible mass and to help coordinate the overall plan. Learn more about [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/) and [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/). Arrange practical support for wound care, mobility exercises, transport and school or work changes.

After an operation, call the team about fever, increasing redness, drainage, wound opening, worsening pain, calf swelling or a sudden change in movement. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting or uncontrolled bleeding. Follow the team's weight-bearing and wound instructions because reconstruction needs time to heal.

What part of the bone and surrounding tissue will be removed? Is limb-sparing surgery suitable for me? What reconstruction is proposed? How will the operation affect movement, strength and sensation? When should rehabilitation begin, and what symptoms need an urgent call?