What to expect from tumour removal surgery for bone cancer

The surgical team reviews scans and biopsy findings to map the tumour and decide how much tissue must be removed. When its position allows, limb-sparing surgery removes the tumour while preserving the limb. The gap may be repaired with a metal implant, bone graft or another reconstruction. If the tumour involves major nerves, blood vessels or extensive tissue, a different operation may be discussed. The removed tissue is examined to check the edges around the tumour and guide further treatment.

You may meet an orthopaedic oncology surgeon, anaesthetist, physiotherapist and rehabilitation team. Recovery can include pain control, wound care, protected weight-bearing and exercises that gradually restore mobility.

Before admission, tell the team about medicines, allergies, dental problems and any fever or skin infection. Arrange help with washing, meals, transport and stairs if your mobility will be limited. After surgery, follow the weight-bearing instructions exactly, keep the wound protected and attend physiotherapy. Use walking aids as taught. Do not change pain medicines or exercise intensity without checking with the surgical team.

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, wound discharge, fever, worsening pain or a new difficulty moving the limb. Seek urgent care for sudden chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or a cold, pale or numb limb. These symptoms need assessment rather than observation at home.

Ask which bone and surrounding structures will be removed, whether limb-sparing surgery is suitable, what reconstruction is planned, how long movement will be restricted, and what rehabilitation milestones to expect. Ask how the pathology result will affect any additional treatment and who to contact outside clinic hours.