What is the typical treatment approach for osteosarcoma?

The typical treatment approach for osteosarcoma primarily involves a combination of surgical removal and chemotherapy. Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that is most commonly diagnosed in adolescents and young adults. The aggressiveness of the disease necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Surgical removal is crucial because it allows for the excision of the primary tumor and any surrounding tissues that may be affected. This is often performed through limb-salvage surgery to preserve as much function as possible. In some cases, amputation may be necessary, depending on the tumor's location and size.

Chemotherapy plays a vital role in the treatment regimen, as it targets any potentially microscopic disease that surgical intervention might not remove, reducing the chance of metastasis and recurrence. Preoperative chemotherapy can shrink tumors, making them easier to remove surgically, while postoperative chemotherapy helps eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

This combined approach of surgery and chemotherapy is supported by clinical studies showing increased survival rates compared to therapy methods that rely solely on one type of treatment, emphasizing the critical role of both surgical intervention and systemic therapy in managing osteosarcoma effectively.