Tumors
Bone tumors are abnormal growths of cells within the bone that can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). These tumors can affect any bone in the body and can vary significantly in terms of their behavior, treatment, and prognosis. Here's an overview of bone tumors:
Benign Bone Tumors
Small, asymptomatic benign tumors may only require regular monitoring with periodic imaging to check for growth or changes.
Surgical Removal:
- When the tumor causes pain, interferes with function, has a risk of fracture, or shows potential for malignant transformation.
- The tumor is surgically removed, and bone grafting may be done to fill the defect.
Curettage and Bone Grafting:
- The tumor is scraped out of the bone (curettage) and the cavity is filled with bone graft material or synthetic bone substitutes to provide structural support.
Sclerotherapy:
- Used for specific types of benign bone tumors, like aneurysmal bone cysts. A sclerosing agent is injected to shrink the tumor.
Malignant Bone Tumors
Surgery:
- Limb-Sparing Surgery: The tumor is removed while preserving as much of the limb's function as possible. This may involve reconstruction with bone grafts or metal implants.
- Amputation: In cases where limb-sparing surgery is not possible or if the tumor is very large, amputation may be necessary.
Chemotherapy:
- Often used before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) to shrink the tumor and after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Commonly used for osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.
Radiation Therapy:
- Used to kill cancer cells, particularly in tumors that are not easily accessible by surgery or for tumors that respond well to radiation, such as Ewing sarcoma.
- May be used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.
Targeted Therapy:
- Involves drugs that target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.
- Used in certain types of bone cancer, such as those with specific genetic mutations.
Immunotherapy:
- Utilizes the body's immune system to attack cancer cells.
- Used in specific cases where the tumor exhibits certain markers or characteristics.
Follow-Up and Rehabilitation
- Regular Monitoring
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Management
- Supportive Care
If you would like to have additional information contact Dr. Vipul Shet, serving communities and people from all walks of live.
