Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma occurs through DNA changes in cells that create the bone. This form of cancer forms when mutations occur in the DNA responsible for making bone. Tumors cause pain with activity. Tumors most often appear at the ends of the main bones in the upper and lower leg, near the knee.
Our goal is to provide you with the most advanced therapies, as well as practical and emotional support to guide you through every aspect of your cancer journey.
Treatment options
We quickly conduct the tests needed to make a conclusive diagnosis. The whole team of cancer specialists is brought together in one place for one appointment with you and your family.
The team will discuss the treatment options that are best for your personal solution and answer any questions you may have. You will leave with a detailed verbal and written care plan, a road map for your cancer treatment.
Chemotherapy is usually given both before and after surgery. Chemotherapy kills pockets of cancer cells in the body, including those too small to show on medical scans.
Radiation using high-energy x-rays may be used in addition to surgery, to ensure that any remaining cancer cells have been destroyed. Localized radiation can attack specific malignant cells that may remain after surgery and has fewer side effects than conventional radiation. Radiation is used in certain, isolated cases, but chemotherapy and surgery are the main treatment strategies for bone cancer in children.
Surgery can often effectively remove bone cancer. Wherever possible, we use surgical techniques that avoid amputation and save a limb. Our orthopedic oncology surgeons safely remove the cancer and often work with other pediatric specialists (sports medicine surgeons, plastic surgeons, etc.) to reconstruct limbs to maximize function.
Localized radiation can attack specific osteosarcoma cells that may remain after surgery. It has fewer side effects than conventional radiation.
An entire team of medical professionals with advanced training and years of experience deliver radiation treatment and care. Together, they continually work on ways to make radiation therapy more effective while at the same time preventing side effects.
A Powerful Second Opinion
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