Orthopaedics SA

Bone Sarcoma

Surgeon wearing surgical mask, cap and face shield in operating theatre

Specialised treatment for bone sarcoma

Bone sarcoma is another term for primary bone cancer.

Bone cancer starts in the bones and as the tumour grows, the cells multiply and destroy the bone. Primary cancer can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Bone sarcoma is rare, with around 200 Australians diagnosed each year.

Surgical team performing operation in theatre, wearing protective masks and surgical caps

bone sarcoma frequently asked questions

The following symptoms can be a sign of bone cancer, consult your doctor if symptoms last for more than two weeks.

  • Pain in the bone and joints that isn’t relieved by mild over the counter pain relief
  • Swelling near the affected area
  • Tenderness or stiffness in the bones
  • Fracture
  • Fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss

The causes of most bone cancers are unknown, but risks may be increased if:

  • They have been previously treated with radiotherapy. Most people who have radiotherapy will not develop cancer, but the risk is higher if they had high doses at a young age
  • They have other bone conditions such as Paget’s disease, or multiple enchondromatosis
  • There is a  genetic predisposition, or family history of cancer

Your Doctor will do a physical examination and take a medical history, they may request some of the following tests:

  • Blood test
  • X-ray
  • CT or MRI scans
  • PET scan
  • Bone biopsy

Your treatment will be specific to your case.

After careful history and physical examination, your surgeon will order appropriate tests, in order to get more information on the tumour, and also to determine if the tumour has spread to other parts of the body.

Sometimes a biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is a sample of tissue, taken from the tumour. This is sent to a pathologist who examines the tissue under a microscope in order to confirm the diagnosis. Your case may also be discussed amongst a team of cancer specialists at an MDT (Multi-Disciplinary Team) Meeting prior to elaborating a treatment plan.

Your surgeon will discuss your particular treatment plan in detail and answer any questions you may have at your appointment.

Oncology treatments

  • Chemotherapy

    Chemotherapy refers to the administration of certain medications to kill cancer cells. Sometimes, they are given before surgery (also called neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumour and make it easier to be removed. It also treats any microscopic disease (kills

  • Oncology Surgery

    With the development of newer chemotherapy regimes, most sarcomas can be treated with limb sparing surgery (without the need for amputation). For bone sarcomas, the tumour is removed, and the bone defect is then reconstructed with either a megaprosthesis (a

  • Radiotherapy

    Radiotherapy is a form of radiation that is used to kill tumour cells. It may be used for unresectable tumours (where surgery is not possible), or to kill residual cells when the tumour can only be partially removed. Potential risks

Why Orthopaedics SA?

Comprehensive care

From arthritis to sports injuries, we treat a full spectrum of bone and joint conditions to keep you moving.

Expert surgeons

Our highly trained doctors have years of experience delivering precise and effective treatments.

SA’s largest practice

With 23 specialists, we offer unmatched expertise and evidence-based care for every patient.

Multiple locations

We have multiple clinics across South Australia, making it simple to find expert care nearby.

Patient-centric approach

We prioritise understanding your condition to ensure every treatment recommendation feels right for you.

Reliable support

Our team of nurses and administrative staff works behind the scenes to make your experience smooth and stress-free.

Meet our doctors

Our surgeons are highly qualified to offer personalised treatments tailored to your needs. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and ensure every decision is made with your well-being in mind.

We take responsibility for our patient’s experience

From your initial consultation to follow-up care, our team will guide you through every step of your treatment. Your specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan, including physical therapy to restore function and prevent future injuries.

Care

We care for people

Professionalism

We bring our best

Communication

We are open and genuine

Community

We are strongest together

Have questions? We're here to help.