Our Approach
Bone cancer is a rare form of cancer that begins in your bones and can spread to other parts of the body. There are three main types of bone cancer - Osteosarcoma,Ewing’s Sarcoma and Chondrosarcoma.
Diagnosing Bone Cancer
A key symptom of bone cancer is bone pain during simple activities such as walking or picking something up. Your physician may choose to investigate symptoms further through a bone scan, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT scan (computed tomography), X-ray or PET scan (positron emission tomography). If a tumor is detected, your physician will conduct a biopsy to determine if the tumor is cancerous. Not all bone tumors are cancerous. If cancer is detected, you may be referred to a specialist for staging to determine more information about the cancer and if it has spread beyond the tumor. This staging will help the doctors decide what bone cancer treatment options are best.
Treatments & Procedures
Common treatment routes for bone cancer include:
- Radiation therapy / Radiation oncology
- Chemotherapy
- Cancer Surgery
In rare cases, when the tumor is large enough, amputation of the limb may be required.
Programs & Support
Franciscan Health gives you and your family a supportive environment for learning, sharing and healing during cancer treatment and beyond. And, because every cancer experience is unique, we provide comprehensive services that address your physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
