Orthopedic Oncology

The Orthopaedic Oncology service at KIMS manages all bone and soft-tissue tumors, benign and malignant, primary, recurrent and metastatic as well as tumor-like conditions of bone. KIMS has been a pioneer in the development of limb-sparing surgical strategies for both malignant bone and soft-tissue sarcomas. It has one of the largest series of metal implants (endoprostheses) for bone tumors and resections for soft-tissue sarcomas.

Diagnoses are confirmed and neoadjuvant treatments using chemotherapy and or radiation therapy are considered and discussed. All radiographic studies are reviewed and the locations of tumors are precisely defined prior treatment. Surgical biopsies are reviewed by pathology as are all the surgical specimens after definitive surgical procedures. Additional adjuvant treatments are recommended if thought to be in the patient's best interest. The goal in dealing with malignant bone and soft tissue-tumors of the musculoskeletal system is to save both the life and limb, while maximizing the function of the limb. CT-guided needle biopsies are preferred for diagnosis and can usually be done the day of the consultation, under sedation if necessary. Infants, children, adolescents, and adults are all eligible for evaluation and treatment. Tumors involving the hand and the spine are routinely managed along with members of the Hand and Spine services. Surgical resections are done by orthopaedic oncologists and when indicated by a multidisciplinary team that could include surgical oncologists, vascular surgeons, neurosurgeons, thoracic surgeons, urologists and plastic surgeons.