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Orthopedic oncology is a medical specialty that treats cancers of the musculoskeletal system (muscle tissue, bones, cartilage, nerves, and blood vessels). This specialty treats malignant tumors (where cancer may spread through the body) and benign (non-cancerous) tumors. Musculoskeletal tumors are uncommon and orthopedic oncologists are similarly rare, with only slightly more than one hundred orthopedic oncologists practicing in the United States.
Some conditions which an orthopedic oncologist may treat include:
Orthopedic oncologists diagnose these conditions through a combination of radiological imaging and tests. X-rays and MRIs can detect tumors or diseased bone. Blood samples and biopsies (tissue samples) can also be useful in assessing a patient's condition. Orthopedic oncologists may evaluate disease progression and assess patients' tolerance to certain procedures.
Most musculoskeletal tumors require surgical removal, which may be performed by orthopedic oncologists or orthopedic surgeons. Some patients receive chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which are typically conducted before, after, or in place of surgery. Orthopedic oncologists refer patients to other specialists for chemotherapy or radiation treatment. Orthopedic oncologists may prescribe bone grafts (healthy bone is transplanted to diseased bone) for patients with advanced bone conditions. Orthopedic oncologists work alongside other oncologists (cancer physicians), orthopedists, and orthopedic surgeons.
