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Limb-salvage Surgery

Limb-salvage surgery has become the standard of care, except in situations where it may compromise the outcome. In 80-90% of patients, a doctor may perform a limb-salvage surgery where the bone that has cancer is removed and the limb (usually an arm or leg) is saved from amputation. The challenge for the surgeon is to remove the entire tumor while still preserving the nearby tendons, nerves, and vessels. The bone that is removed is replaced by filling the gap with a bone graft (healthy bone taken from another part of your body) or special metal rod called an endoprosthesis.

Most patients can walk with the help of crutches within 2 days after surgery. However, recovery depends on the location of the tumor and the surgery. Most patients can walk without crutches within 2 weeks. Some patients with more complex reconstruction and those with bone grafts (as opposed to metal implants) may need to continue use of crutches for up to 6 to 12 weeks. Every patient undergoes some type of rehabilitation or physical therapy.