Article for Doctor’s Day
Orthopaedic oncology is a specialized field of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of bone and soft tissue tumors. In general, the incidence of bone and soft tissue tumors is relatively low compared to other tumors (0.1%), but the number of cases is significant because of our huge population.
The management of bone tumors in India is primarily done by orthopaedic surgeons who have been further trained in Musculoskeletal Oncology. However, due to the complexity of these cases, a multidisciplinary approach is necessary. This involves the collaboration of orthopaedic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists.
If there is an unexplained swelling with or without pain, which is gradually increasing, you should go and meet your Orthopaedic Oncosurgeon.
The diagnosis of bone tumors in India is usually done through imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI scans. X-ray helps narrow down on a diagnosis in 80% cases. Biopsy is the most essential tool for the diagnosis. There is no role of FNAC. In India, the availability of advanced imaging techniques and facilities for biopsy is limited in some areas. But Xray and MRI are enough to plan a needle biopsy and establish a diagnosis. Once diagnosis is confirmed a PET scan is done to see if the disease has spread to any other part or not (Stage).
The treatment of these tumors depends on the type and stage of the tumor. Surgery is the primary treatment modality for most tumors which are benign. In malignant ones, chemotherapy and radiation therapy may also be used. Some benign tumors maybe left alone while some metastatic tumors may need to treated with palliative intent. The availability of advanced treatment options such as limb salvage surgery and reconstructive surgery is now not difficult.
In conclusion, orthopaedic oncology is an emerging field in India, and the management of bone tumors requires a multidisciplinary approach. But early diagnosis, correct planning and meticulous execution can give favourable results. So for a patient, any signs of unexplained swelling which doesn’t settle in a week’s time should be evaluated and shown to your nearest Orthopaedic Oncosurgeon. Bone Tumors have a better survival when treated in time. Remember, no one should face cancer alone, and through our collective efforts, we can provide hope, strength, and support to those in need.
Dr. Mishil Parikh is a Consultant Orthopaedic Oncosurgeon at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, South Mumbai. He has been trained at the prestigious Tata Memorial Hospital under Dr. Ajay Puri and Dr. Ashish Gulia. He has vast experience in the diagnosis and management of all types of Malignant and Benign, Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors, and Skeletal Metastases. He is well versed with Limb Salvage techniques. He is also an academician and philanthropist. Propagates the spread of awareness about Orthopaedic oncology and tries to make sure no patient goes untreated because of monetary issues.
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