Treatment Options for Bone Cancer
Treatment options for bone cancer typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The goal is to remove or destroy the cancer, reduce the risk of recurrence, and preserve as much limb function as possible.
1. Surgery
- Surgery aims to remove the tumour entirely, along with a margin of healthy tissue.
- Limb-sparing surgery is often possible with modern techniques, allowing the affected bone to be replaced with a prosthesis or bone graft.
- Amputation may be necessary if the tumour involves major blood vessels, nerves, or a large portion of the limb.
- Recovery includes physical therapy and prosthetic fitting if needed.
2. Chemotherapy
- Often used for osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.
- Administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumours or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells.
- Drugs like doxorubicin, cisplatin, ifosfamide, and methotrexate are commonly used.
- Side effects include nausea, hair loss, fatigue, and immune suppression.
3. Radiation therapy
- Especially useful in Ewing sarcoma and unresectable tumours.
- High-energy X-rays destroy cancer cells or relieve pain in advanced cases.
- May be used after surgery if tumour margins are unclear.
4. Targeted therapies and clinical trials
- These newer treatments focus on specific cancer cell mutations.
- Availability in South Africa is limited and typically accessed through academic hospitals or trial programmes.
5. Supportive care
- Includes pain management, nutritional support, psychological counselling, and rehabilitation therapy.
- Emotional support is crucial for children and teens facing changes to their appearance or mobility.
In South Africa:
- Public hospitals offer surgical and chemotherapy services, but wait times and access to advanced prosthetics or targeted therapy may vary.
- Private hospitals provide faster treatment access, but cost remains a barrier for many.
Treatment Options for Bone Cancer
Early, aggressive treatment improves survival rates and offers the best chance at preserving quality of life.
👉 [Next: Living with Bone Cancer – Recovery and Support]
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