Doctors stress early treatment, dispel myths about bone cancer

Doctors emphasize early treatment for bone cancer and debunk myths, highlighting that amputation is rarely needed today.

Doctors from Narayana Health, Bengaluru, on February 24 stressed the need to dispel misconceptions surrounding bone cancer, and emphasised that early diagnosis and timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes, especially in children.

Addressing a press conference in Kalaburagi, Dr. Suman M. Byregowda, Senior Orthopaedic Consultant at Narayana Health, said that amputation is no longer necessary in the vast majority of bone cancer cases. “There was a time when bone cancer meant removing the affected limb. Today, in 95% of the cases, amputation is not required. With proper treatment, patients can lead an almost-normal life,” he said.

He added that early diagnosis and coordinated treatment are critical in managing aggressive bone cancers. “A good response to chemotherapy allows us to preserve the limb through complex reconstruction while ensuring oncological safety,” he said, noting that bone cancer in children can be completely cured in nearly 80% of cases if treated appropriately.

Responding to a query, he said there is no standard screening test for bone cancer. “Persistent bone pain or fractures occurring with minimal trauma should not be ignored. In such cases, we conduct detailed investigations to rule out malignancy,” he explained.

Highlighting another milestone, Dr. Vinu Raj, Spine Specialist at Narayana Health, said the hospital has successfully completed 10,000 orthopaedic surgeries over the past three years, marking a significant achievement in advanced joint, spine and complex reconstructive care.

“Supported by robotic-assisted navigation, advanced imaging, neuromonitoring and customised implant technology, our Department of Orthopaedics is equipped to handle increasingly complex cases with greater surgical precision and improved recovery outcomes,” Dr. Raj said.