Orthopedic Oncologist in Phoenix: What is “Bone Cancer”?

Re-Publish this Article

<h1>Orthopedic Oncologist in Phoenix: What is “Bone Cancer”?</h1><strong> Author: <a href='http://www.articleseen.com/profile_jennifer1.aspx'>jennifer1</a></strong><br /><p>Any suspicious bone or soft tissue lesion requires a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic oncologist in Phoenix. Fortunately, bone cancer is not as prevalent as some other cancers. Cancer causes normal cells to grow uncontrollably, invade surrounding tissue and spread to distant areas. Although any uncontrolled growth is defined as a tumor, not all tumors are cancer. In fact, benign tumors are more common than cancerous ones. Because they develop locally but don’t spread to other organs, benign tumors are not life threatening. Malignant tumors of bones and connective tissues are called sarcomas. Connective tissues include muscle and fat. Bone and tissue sarcomas are not very common. In 2005, only 2,570 new bone sarcoma cases were reported in the U.S. The same year, 9,420 new cases of soft tissue sarcomas were reported in the U.S. -- almost four times more than bone sarcomas. Most sarcomas develop in patients from unknown causes. Genetic factors may play a role, but the link is not definitive. A known risk factor is previous radiation exposure. However, sarcomas caused by radiation are rare. Research is focusing on the molecular level and mestatasis. If mestatasis, or spreading to other organs like the lung can be prevented, survival rates will increase significantly. In terms of treatments, an orthopedic oncologist in Phoenix can use chemotherapy to improve survival rates drastically. By targeting cells that may have started to spread, chemotherapy stops malignant cell growth. Surgery can also help regain function. Technology has made huge inroads in reconstructing bones and soft tissues affected by cancer. For example, endoprostheses are metal and plastic devices used to reconstruct entire bones and joints. These devices replace the need for amputation in selected patients. In addition, innovative developments include prostheses for children that accommodate future limb growth. Another development involves vascularized bone reconstruction. This surgical technique allows living bone to be transported from another area of the body to reconstruct bony defects. An orthopedic oncologist in Phoenix will also use reconstruction techniques for soft tissue defects after removing large sarcomas. Even with these dramatic advances, some patients may still require amputation. One shining light with amputation is the advancement in prosthetic limbs. New technologies allow patients to lead a very active lifestyle. Using advanced prostheses, patients can participate in a wide variety of activities, including running and cycling. Patient treatment begins with a biopsy, a sample of tissue analyzed by a pathologist. Testing the right site is critical. If the biopsy is done improperly, the cancer may be undiagnosed or treated inadequately. Therefore, an orthopedic oncologist in Phoenix should be consulted. A bone scan should be performed when cancer in any part of the body is first diagnosed. Any lesions present in the skeleton can be better evaluated and monitored at an earlier stage. Sarcomas may be the primary tumors of the bone. However, the bone is a common area for metastasis of other cancers in the body. For example, breast, lung, thyroid, prostate and renal cancer commonly spread to the bone. Therefore, patients diagnosed with any of these cancers should pay attention to any pain in the limbs, spine or pelvis. As with all cancers, early detection is key to recovery. With bone cancer, you want to catch it early to prevent losing function or destroying bone. Surgery and radiation may prevent further complications. Refer any suspicious lesions to an orthopedic oncologist in Phoenix for further evaluation. Starting with basic tools such as a physical exam or x-rays can provide valuable information. </p><strong>About the Author:</strong><br />Erica Brinker is Vice President of Strategy and Marketing at the CORE Institute, which began practicing in 2005 to fulfill a vision of orthopedic excellence encompassing the entire spectrum of orthopedic sciences. Learn more about <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.thecoreinstitute.com/patient-and-visitor-information/the-core-team.html">orthopedic oncologists in Phoenix</a> by visiting our website today<p> Article Source: <a href='http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Orthopedic-Oncologist-in-PhoenixWhat-is-“Bone-Cancer”_88235.aspx'> http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Orthopedic Oncologist in Phoenix: What is “Bone Cancer”?_88235.aspx</a></p>

Article Source : http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Orthopedic Oncologist in Phoenix: What is “Bone Cancer”?_88235.aspx

Keywords : Orthopedic oncologist in Phoenix, orthopedic surgery, CORE Institute,

Category : Health and Fitness : Medicine