Osteosarcoma
The most common primary bone cancer. It usually starts near the knee or the shoulder, where the bone grows fastest.
Treated Cases
Bone Cancer Treated Cases
Understand bone cancer and bone tumours, and see before and after results of cases treated by Dr. Chandresh Sharma at Lifeline Hospital, Ahmedabad.
Know the Condition
What is Bone Cancer?
Bone cancer is an abnormal, uncontrolled growth of cells inside a bone. It can weaken the bone, cause pain and swelling, and in some cases spread to other parts of the body. Primary bone cancer, which starts in the bone itself, is rare. Far more often, bones are affected when cancer from another organ such as the breast, prostate, lung, kidney or thyroid spreads to them. This is called secondary or metastatic bone cancer.
Not every lump or bone pain is cancer. Many bone tumours are benign (non-cancerous), but even these can weaken a bone or grow aggressively, so every suspicious swelling or persistent bone pain deserves a proper check by an orthopedic specialist.
Common Types
Ewing Sarcoma
Can arise in the pelvis, thigh bone, leg or ribs. Often causes pain, swelling and sometimes fever.
Chondrosarcoma
A cancer of cartilage cells. Commonly found in the pelvis, hip, thigh bone and shoulder. Often slow growing.
Giant Cell Tumour
Usually not cancerous but locally aggressive. Commonly seen around the knee and wrist and may weaken the bone.
Warning Signs
- Bone pain that keeps coming back or becomes worse over weeks
- Pain that is worse at night or while resting
- A swelling or lump over a bone, which may feel warm or tender
- A fracture after a minor fall or no injury at all
- Limping, stiffness or reduced movement of a nearby joint
- Unexplained tiredness, fever or weight loss
How It Is Diagnosed
- Clinical examination and detailed history
- X-ray of the affected bone, the first and most useful test
- MRI to see the exact size and spread of the tumour
- CT scan, bone scan or PET scan to check the chest and other bones
- Blood tests, including alkaline phosphatase and LDH
- Biopsy, a small tissue sample, to confirm the exact type. It must be planned carefully by the surgical team.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type, size and location of the tumour, and whether it has spread. It is planned together with oncologists and other specialists.
Limb Salvage Surgery
The tumour is removed with a safe margin of healthy tissue and the bone is rebuilt with a bone graft or a metal implant (endoprosthesis), so the limb can be saved and kept functional.
Chemotherapy
Medicines that destroy cancer cells. Often given before and after surgery for cancers such as osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.
Radiotherapy
High energy rays used when surgery is not possible, to treat leftover cells, or to relieve pain in spread to the bone.
Reconstruction & Rehabilitation
Joint replacement or reconstruction restores movement, and a guided physiotherapy programme helps the patient walk and return to daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every bone lump cancer?
No. Many bone lumps are benign. Only an examination, imaging and sometimes a biopsy can tell which one it is, so do not panic but do get it checked.
Can the limb be saved?
In most patients today, limb salvage surgery is possible. Amputation is needed only in a small number of cases where the tumour cannot be removed safely.
Is bone cancer curable?
Many bone tumours can be cured or controlled, especially when diagnosed early and treated by an experienced team. Outcome depends on the type, stage and the patient's response to treatment.
What should I bring for the consultation?
Bring all your X-rays, MRI or CT films and reports, biopsy reports if done, and a list of current medicines.
This information is for general awareness only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
Results
Case Images
Before and after X-rays of bone tumour cases treated at Lifeline Hospital. Tap any image to view it full size.
Consult Dr. Chandresh Sharma
Need an expert opinion?
Bring your reports and X-rays to the OPD at Lifeline Hospital, Ahmedabad. Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 1 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM.