Dignity Health Medical Group Specialty Orthopedic and Plastic Surgery-St. Josephs
500 W Thomas Rd, Ste 800
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Phone: 602-406-1234
Fax: 602-406-6368
Orthopedic Oncology and Sarcoma Care
Understanding Orthopedic Oncology and Sarcoma Care: When Bones and Joints Need Specialized Care
Orthopedic oncology is a specialized field of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of tumors affecting the bones, joints, and surrounding soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels). These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and require a multidisciplinary approach involving orthopedic oncological surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists to provide the best possible care.
While the thought of a bone or soft tissue tumor can be frightening, early detection and advancements in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for many patients. This page aims to provide a basic understanding of orthopedic oncology, the types of diseases it addresses, common symptoms, and when it's crucial to seek medical attention.
A Categorical Breakdown of Orthopedic Oncology Conditions
Primary Bone Tumors: These tumors originate within the bone itself. Examples include:
Osteosarcoma: The most common primary bone cancer, typically affecting adolescents and young adults.
Chondrosarcoma: A cancer of cartilage cells, more common in adults.
Ewing Sarcoma: A rare cancer that can occur in bone or soft tissue, primarily affecting children and young adults.
Giant Cell Tumor of Bone (GCTB): Usually benign but can be locally aggressive, often affecting the ends of long bones.
Soft Tissue Sarcomas: These tumors arise in the soft tissues surrounding bones and joints. Examples include:
Liposarcoma: Develops from fat cells.
Leiomyosarcoma: Develops from smooth muscle tissue.
Synovial Sarcoma: Often found near joints, but doesn't originate from the joint lining.
Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma (UPS): A common type of sarcoma with cells that are difficult to classify.
Metastatic Bone Disease: This occurs when cancer from another part of the body (e.g., breast, lung, prostate, kidney, thyroid) spreads to the bones. This is significantly more common than primary bone cancer.
Benign Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors: While not cancerous, these tumors can still cause pain, swelling, and functional limitations. Examples include:
Osteochondroma: The most common benign bone tumor, often occurring near joints.
Enchondroma: A cartilage tumor that develops within the bone.
Fibrous Dysplasia: A bone disorder where normal bone is replaced with fibrous tissue.
Lipoma: A benign tumor of fat cells.
Comprehensive, Integrated Specialized Medical Care
Treating orthopedic cancers effectively requires a complex and coordinated effort. Orthopedic oncology relies on a multidisciplinary team, bringing together the expertise of orthopedic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists. This collaborative approach allows for the development of personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique situation. The team also includes rehabilitation specialists, pain management experts, and psychosocial support professionals to address the multifaceted challenges of cancer treatment.
Recognizing the Symptoms: What to Watch For
Symptoms of bone and soft tissue tumors can vary depending on the location, size, and type of tumor. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Pain: Persistent or worsening pain in a bone or joint, which may be worse at night or with activity.
- Swelling: A noticeable lump or swelling in the affected area.
- Soft Tissue Mass: A mass that is increasing in size, exceeds 5 cm in diameter (approximately the size of two quarters placed side-by-side), or is painful.
- Limping
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving a joint or limb.
- Fracture: A bone fracture that occurs with minimal or no trauma (pathologic fracture).
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
- Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying.
- Numbness or Tingling: If the tumor is pressing on a nerve.
Treatments
At Dignity Health Chandler Regional Medical Center, we understand that every patient is unique. That's why we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your individual needs and preferences.
Our treatment options are tailored to your specific needs and may include:
- Surgical Treatments: We offer surgical solutions ranging from tumor removal to limb salvage and reconstructive procedures, depending on the nature and extent of your condition.
- Systemic Therapy and Interventional Therapy: We utilize systemic therapies, such as chemotherapy, to target cancer cells throughout the body. Interventional therapies, like ablation, offer minimally invasive options to destroy tumors using targeted energy. Our team will determine the most appropriate combination of therapies for your individual case.
- Palliative Care for Pain Management: Our palliative care team provides comprehensive pain management services, creating personalized treatment plans to address your unique needs and improve your overall well-being.
When to See a Doctor
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in orthopedic oncology. Your doctor can perform a thorough examination, order imaging tests (such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and bone scans), and potentially recommend a biopsy to determine the nature of the tumor. If a tumor is suspected, referral to an orthopedic oncologist is essential for specialized care and treatment planning.
It's important to consult a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent and unexplained bone or joint pain, especially if it's worsening.
A new or growing lump or swelling in a bone or soft tissue.
Any of the other symptoms listed above, especially if they are persistent or concerning.
A history of cancer and new bone pain.
Meet Dr. Dipak B. Ramkumar
Dr. Dipak B. Ramkumar, an Orthopaedic Oncological Surgeon at Dignity Health St. Joseph's, is dedicated to providing exceptional, patient-centered care for individuals with musculoskeletal tumors. He combines advanced surgical techniques with a multidisciplinary approach, prioritizing open communication, shared decision-making, and holistic support to improve patient outcomes and well-being.
Orthopedic Oncology Locations
Dignity Health Medical Group Orthopedic and Plastic Surgery - Chandler Regional
485 Dobson Rd, Ste 110
Chandler, AZ 85224
Phone: 480-955-0720
Fax: 480-729-4499
Dignity Health Medical Group Orthopedic and Sports Medicine - Mercy Gilbert
3420 S. Mercy Rd Ste 200
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Phone: 480-909-3788
Fax: 480-728-6271
*Consultation services are available at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center on a case-by-case basis.