We have a specialized Bone & Soft Tissue Tumor Program dedicated to the diagnosis, removal and treatment of benign and malignant bone tumors and soft tissue sarcomas throughout the body.
Our program is overseen by our dedicated pediatric surgeon — fellowship trained in both pediatric orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal oncology — who specializes in treatment for pediatric patients with benign or malignant bone tumors. We are one of the only children’s hospitals in the region to have an in-house surgeon specializing in both areas of care.
To treat patients with malignant (cancerous) bone tumors, our orthopedic care team collaborates seamlessly with our Jonathan Jaques Children’s Cancer Institute care team. The blending of the two specialty teams gives patients and families access to a multi-disciplinary panel of experts including pediatric oncologists, physical therapists, dietitians, psychologists, social workers and more to offer patients the highest level of expertise and best possible outcome.
Bone tumors, both benign and malignant, can cause complications in growing bodies. To ensure long-term health and improved quality of life, the multi-disciplinary care team collaborates to determine an individualized treatment plan for each patient. Treatment can range from surgery, including limb salvage procedures, to radiation, chemotherapy, physical therapy and more.
Bone and Tissue Tumor Types
Malignant
Malignant bone tumors are cancerous tumors that destroy normal bone tissue. There are two types of malignant bone tumors. Primary cancers begin in the bone, while secondary cancers spread to the bone from other parts of the body. Primary bone cancers are rare and only account for about three to seven percent of all childhood cancers.
- Soft Tissue Sarcoma
A sarcoma is a type of cancer that develops from certain tissues, like bone or muscle. Soft tissue sarcomas can develop from fat, muscle, nerves, fibrous tissues, blood vessels or deep skin tissues. Soft tissue sarcomas can be found in any part of the body, while most develop in the arms or legs.
Benign
Benign, noncancerous, bone tumors are more common than malignant tumors. While benign tumors are usually not life-threatening, they can still cause problems for the body. Since children’s bodies are still developing, it’s still important to treat benign tumors as they make it easier for bones to fracture.