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Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology

A special issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine (ISSN 2077-0383). This special issue belongs to the section "Oncology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 February 2024) | Viewed by 21423

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Banner University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
Interests: orthopedic oncology; sarcoma biology; sarcoma epidemiology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of California, Davis, CA 95817, USA
Interests: orthopedic oncology; limb salvage surgery; pelvic resection and reconstructive surgery; sarcoma biology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Orthopedic oncology is a diverse field of medicine that deals with various oncologic processes affecting the musculoskeletal system. These include benign connective-tissue neoplasms, metastatic disease, and primary bone and soft tissue sarcomas. Recent laboratory and epidemiological evidence has implicated the role of the bone micro-enviornment in development of widespread metastatic disease. Multidisciplinary discussion and care, in which orthopedic oncology plays a leading role, is critical to optimizing outcomes for these rare diseases. Multimodal-treatment strategies, including local treatment modalities, such as surgery, percutaneous ablative procedures, and radiotherapy, and systemic modalities, such as chemo- and immuno-therapy in adjuvant and neoadjuvant settings, are being employed. The current Special Issue aims to address the novel developments in some of the key areas of treatment strategies employed in the field of orthopedic oncology.

Dr. Muhammad Umar Jawad
Dr. Steven W. Thorpe
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • bone metastasis
  • primary bone tumors
  • soft tissue sarcoma
  • limb salvage
  • multimodal-treatment strategies

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 412 KiB  
Article
Exploring Risk Factors for Predicting 30-Day Postoperative Morbidity in Musculoskeletal Tumor Surgery
by Philip Heesen, Maria Elyes, Jan Domanski, Georg Schelling, Sören Könneker and Bruno Fuchs
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(9), 2681; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13092681 - 2 May 2024
Viewed by 808
Abstract
Background: This study investigates the risk factors associated with postoperative complications in musculoskeletal tumor surgeries and evaluates the impact of benchmarking in enhancing surgical outcomes. Methods: Conducted at a tertiary referral center, this retrospective analysis included 196 patients who underwent surgeries [...] Read more.
Background: This study investigates the risk factors associated with postoperative complications in musculoskeletal tumor surgeries and evaluates the impact of benchmarking in enhancing surgical outcomes. Methods: Conducted at a tertiary referral center, this retrospective analysis included 196 patients who underwent surgeries for various musculoskeletal tumors, ranging from soft tissue to bone sarcomas. Patient and tumor characteristics, along with surgical interventions and outcomes, were comprehensively assessed using the Charlson Comorbidity Index and the Clavien-Dindo classification. Results: Key findings indicate that surgical reconstruction, ASA 3 status, bone tumor presence, and the need for multiple erythrocyte transfusions significantly increase postoperative morbidity. Notably, no significant correlation was found between the Charlson Comorbidity Index scores and the occurrence or severity of complications, challenging the utility of this index in predicting short-term surgical outcomes. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of tailored surgical approaches and emphasizes rigorous preoperative assessments to mitigate risks and enhance patient care. Despite its insights, limitations include its retrospective nature and single-center scope, suggesting a need for broader, multicenter studies to generalize findings. Overall, our results underscore the necessity of integrating clinical assessments with benchmarking data to optimize outcomes in the complex field of musculoskeletal tumor surgery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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12 pages, 210 KiB  
Article
The Benefit of an Umbrella Protocol: Reducing Challenges in Orthopedic Oncology Research
by Samuel K. Simister, Shannon Tse, Aziz Saade, Chancey A. Sweeney, Barton L. Wise, Steven W. Thorpe and R. Lor Randall
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(6), 1551; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13061551 - 8 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1405
Abstract
Background: Orthopedic oncology research is hindered by the scarcity of musculoskeletal tumors and research administrative inefficiencies. This paper introduces observational research through an innovative institution-specific methodology—termed an umbrella protocol. This protocol outlines a comprehensive standard procedure to expedite ethical approval for future [...] Read more.
Background: Orthopedic oncology research is hindered by the scarcity of musculoskeletal tumors and research administrative inefficiencies. This paper introduces observational research through an innovative institution-specific methodology—termed an umbrella protocol. This protocol outlines a comprehensive standard procedure to expedite ethical approval for future aligned studies, reducing administrative barriers to research. Methods: We developed an umbrella protocol at an academic center, involving meticulous methodological identification and coordination with the institutional review board (IRB) to adhere to local guidelines. The protocol encompasses identifying investigators, research objectives, study goals, and data and safety monitoring frameworks necessary for typical standards. Results: Implementation of the umbrella protocol took 110 days to achieve exemption status, following multiple discussions with the IRB and extensive revisions. At the authors institution, this protocol significantly reduces protocol review times from an average of six-to-eight weeks to nearly instantaneous, facilitating a streamlined research process. Additionally, we established a dedicated orthopedic oncology patient registry to enhance future research endeavors. Conclusions: The adoption of umbrella protocols represents a pioneering strategy in orthopedic oncology. This approach mitigates research administrative burdens and broadens research scope in the field. It underscores the necessity of IRB collaboration, methodological precision, and stringent data management. The article also reflects on the ethical implications and potential biases introduced by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, advocating for diligent ethical oversight. The establishment of an umbrella protocol marks a significant step towards more efficient research methodologies, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and outcomes for individuals with rare musculoskeletal conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
10 pages, 12055 KiB  
Article
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features and Prognostic Indicators of Local Recurrence after Curettage and Cementation of Atypical Cartilaginous Tumour in the Appendicular Skeleton
by Amir Gahanbani Ardakani, Rebecca Morgan, George Matheron, Helard Havard, Michael Khoo, Asif Saifuddin and Panagiotis Gikas
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(21), 6905; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12216905 - 2 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 977
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study is to determine MRI features that may be prognostic indicators of local recurrence (LR) in patients treated with curettage and cementation of atypical cartilaginous tumours (ACTs) in the appendicular skeleton. Materials and Methods: This study [...] Read more.
Objective: The aim of this study is to determine MRI features that may be prognostic indicators of local recurrence (LR) in patients treated with curettage and cementation of atypical cartilaginous tumours (ACTs) in the appendicular skeleton. Materials and Methods: This study is a retrospective review of adult patients with histologically confirmed appendicular ACT. The data collected included age, sex, skeletal location and histology from curettage, the presence of LR and oncological outcomes. The pre-operative MRI characteristics of the ACT reviewed by a specialist MSK radiologist included lesion location, lesion length, degree of medullary filling, bone expansion, cortical status and the presence of soft tissue extension. Results: A total of 43 patients were included, including 9 males and 34 females with a mean age of 42.8 years (range: 25–76 years). Tumours were located in the femur (n = 19), humerus (n = 15), tibia (n = 5), fibula (n = 2) and radius and ulna (n = 1 each). A total of 19 lesions were located in the diaphysis, 12 in the metadiaphysis, 6 in the metaphysis and 6 in the epiphysis. The mean tumour length was 61.0 mm (range: 12–134 mm). The mean follow up was 97.7 months (range: 20–157 months), during which 10 (23.3%) patients developed LR, 7 (70%) of which were asymptomatic and 3 (30%) of which presented with pain. Four patients required repeat surgery with no associated death or evidence of metastatic disease. LR was significantly commoner with tumours arising in the epiphysis or metadiaphysis, but no MRI features were predictive of LR. Conclusions: No relationship was found between the apparent ‘aggressiveness’ of an ACT of the appendicular skeleton on MRI and the development of LR following treatment with curettage and cementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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6 pages, 2396 KiB  
Article
Arthroplasty for Treating Proximal Femur Metastatic Lesions May Be Associated with Lower Mortality Rates Compared to Intramedullary Nailing within the VA Healthcare System
by Phillip W. Lam, David Putnam, Marissa M. Song Mayeda and Kenneth R. Gundle
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(17), 5717; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12175717 - 1 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1062
Abstract
Metastatic bony disease is a significant health issue, with approximately 700,000 new cases annually that tend to metastasize to bones. The proximal femur in the appendicular skeleton is commonly affected. Our study aimed to investigate mortality rates and hospital stay duration in patients [...] Read more.
Metastatic bony disease is a significant health issue, with approximately 700,000 new cases annually that tend to metastasize to bones. The proximal femur in the appendicular skeleton is commonly affected. Our study aimed to investigate mortality rates and hospital stay duration in patients with pathologic proximal femur fractures treated with either intramedullary nailing or arthroplasty within the Veterans Health Administration system. In total, 679 patients (265 arthroplasty, 414 intramedullary nails) were identified through ICD-9 and CPT codes from 30 September 2010 to 1 October 2015. Hospital stays were similar for both groups (arthroplasty: 10.5 days, intramedullary nails: 11 days, p = 0.1). Mortality was associated with increased age and Gagne comorbidity scores (p < 0.001). Arthroplasty showed a survival benefit in the log-rank test (p = 0.018), and this difference persisted in the multivariate analysis after adjusting for age and comorbidities, with a hazard ratio of 1.3. Our study reported evidence that arthroplasty is associated with increased patient survival even when accounting for age and comorbidities in treating metastatic disease of the proximal femur. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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13 pages, 9282 KiB  
Article
Bone Mass Changes Following Percutaneous Radiofrequency Ablation, Osteoplasty, Reinforcement, and Internal Fixation of Periacetabular Osteolytic Metastases
by Will Jiang, Dennis L. Caruana, Christopher M. Dussik, Devin Conway, Igor Latich, Julius Chapiro, Dieter M. Lindskog, Gary E. Friedlaender and Francis Y. Lee
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(14), 4613; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12144613 - 11 Jul 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1485
Abstract
Background: The success of orthopedic interventions for periacetabular osteolytic metastases depends on the progression or regression of cancer-induced bone loss. Purpose: To characterize relative bone mass changes following percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, osteoplasty, cement reinforcement, and internal screw fixation (AORIF). Methods: Of 70 patients [...] Read more.
Background: The success of orthopedic interventions for periacetabular osteolytic metastases depends on the progression or regression of cancer-induced bone loss. Purpose: To characterize relative bone mass changes following percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, osteoplasty, cement reinforcement, and internal screw fixation (AORIF). Methods: Of 70 patients who underwent AORIF at a single institution, 21 patients (22 periacetabular sites; average follow-up of 18.5 ± 12.3 months) had high-resolution pelvic bone CT scans, with at least one scan within 3 months following their operation (baseline) and a comparative scan at least 6 months post-operatively. In total, 73 CT scans were measured for bone mass changes using Hounsfield Units (HU). A region of interest was defined for the periacetabular area in the coronal, axial, and sagittal reformation planes for all CT scans. For 6-month and 1-year scans, the coronal and sagittal HU were combined to create a weight-bearing HU (wbHU). Three-dimensional volumetric analysis was performed on the baseline and longest available CT scans. Cohort survival was compared to predicted PathFx 3.0 survival. Results: HU increased from baseline post-operative (1.2 ± 1.1 months) to most recent follow-up (20.2 ± 12.1 months) on coronal (124.0 ± 112.3), axial (140.3 ± 153.0), and sagittal (151.9 ± 162.4), p < 0.05. Grayscale volumetric measurements increased by 173.4 ± 166.4 (p < 0.05). AORIF median survival was 27.7 months (6.0 months PathFx3.0 predicted; p < 0.05). At 12 months, patients with >10% increase in wbHU demonstrated superior median survival of 36.5 months (vs. 26.4 months, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Percutaneous stabilization leads to improvements in bone mass and may allow for delays in extensive open reconstruction procedures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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13 pages, 2360 KiB  
Article
Phosphaturic Mesenchymal Tumors: Rethinking the Clinical Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment
by Yupeng Liu, Hongbo He, Can Zhang, Hao Zeng, Xiaopeng Tong and Qing Liu
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(1), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12010252 - 29 Dec 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2635
Abstract
Background: The diagnosis of phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMT) is easily delayed clinically, and their surgical treatment is unstandardized. This study aimed to evaluate our experience in the diagnosis and treatment of PMT and provide a research basis for the accurate and standardized treatment [...] Read more.
Background: The diagnosis of phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMT) is easily delayed clinically, and their surgical treatment is unstandardized. This study aimed to evaluate our experience in the diagnosis and treatment of PMT and provide a research basis for the accurate and standardized treatment of PMT. Materials and Methods: Twelve patients diagnosed with PMT in our department and who underwent surgical treatment were included in this study. Preoperative demographic and clinical information were recorded. CT, MRI, and technetium-99m (Tc99m)-octreotide PET/CT imaging techniques were used to evaluate the general conditions and lesion boundaries of the tumors. Surgical treatment was performed using radical resection and microwave ablation-assisted extended curettage according to the lesion location and size. Patients were strictly followed up with and evaluated for oncological prognosis, radiological results, bone healing, serum ion levels, limb function, and pain level; the occurrence of complications was also recorded. Results: Three patients underwent radical resection, and nine underwent microwave ablation-assisted extended curettage. The average duration of symptoms in this group was 1.5 years (9–35 months) before diagnosis. Serum phosphate and AKP levels returned to normal one and two weeks postoperatively, respectively. There was no apparent specificity in the pathological findings; however, the immunohistochemistry of FGF-23 was positive, and the original fracture sites were effectively healed during the follow-up. The limb function and pain scores were significantly improved. The MSTS score increased from 15.3 to 29.0, and the VAS score decreased from 5.3 to 0.4. All patients recovered, and 90% resumed their original jobs. Conclusions: Accurate diagnosis and standardized surgical treatment are crucial to achieving a clinical cure for PMT. Combining clinical manifestations, biochemical examinations, imaging characteristics, and pathological findings is an effective way to diagnose PMT accurately. Radical resection and microwave ablation-assisted extended curettage are reliable surgical treatment methods for PMT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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Review

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14 pages, 5479 KiB  
Review
Chondrosarcoma: A Clinical Review
by Aaron Gazendam, Snezana Popovic, Naveen Parasu and Michelle Ghert
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(7), 2506; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12072506 - 26 Mar 2023
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9355
Abstract
Chondrosarcomas are a diverse group of malignant cartilaginous matrix-producing neoplasms. Conventional chondrosarcomas are a continuum of disease based on the biologic activity of the tumor. The tumors range from the relatively biologically benign low-grade tumors or intermediate atypical cartilaginous tumors (ACTs), to malignant, [...] Read more.
Chondrosarcomas are a diverse group of malignant cartilaginous matrix-producing neoplasms. Conventional chondrosarcomas are a continuum of disease based on the biologic activity of the tumor. The tumors range from the relatively biologically benign low-grade tumors or intermediate atypical cartilaginous tumors (ACTs), to malignant, aggressive high-grade tumors. The clinical presentation, radiographic and pathologic findings, treatments and outcomes vary significantly based on the histologic grade of the tumor. Chondrosarcomas present a diagnostic dilemma, particularly in the differentiation between high- and intermediate-grade tumors and that of low-grade tumors from benign enchondromas. A multidisciplinary team at a tertiary sarcoma centre allows for optimal care of these patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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Other

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12 pages, 6072 KiB  
Case Report
Epithelioid Sarcoma of the Spine: A Review of Literature and Case Report
by Yi Liang Tan, Wilson Ong, Jiong Hao Tan, Naresh Kumar and James Thomas Patrick Decourcy Hallinan
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(17), 5632; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12175632 - 29 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2649
Abstract
Epithelioid sarcoma is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumor that represents less than 1% of soft-tissue sarcomas. Despite its slow growth, the overall prognosis is poor with a high rate of local recurrence, lymph-node spread, and hematogenous metastasis. Primary epithelioid sarcoma arising from the [...] Read more.
Epithelioid sarcoma is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumor that represents less than 1% of soft-tissue sarcomas. Despite its slow growth, the overall prognosis is poor with a high rate of local recurrence, lymph-node spread, and hematogenous metastasis. Primary epithelioid sarcoma arising from the spine is extremely rare, with limited data in the literature. We review the existing literature regarding spinal epithelioid sarcoma and report a case of epithelioid sarcoma arising from the spinal cord. A 54 year old male presented with a 1-month history of progressive left upper-limb weakness and numbness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine showed an enhancing intramedullary mass at the level of T1 also involving the left T1 nerve root. Systemic radiological examination revealed no other lesion at presentation. Surgical excision of the mass was performed, and histology was consistent with epithelioid sarcoma of the spine. Despite adjuvant radiotherapy, there was aggressive local recurrence and development of intracranial metastatic spread. The patient died of the disease within 5 months from presentation. To the best of our knowledge, spinal epithelioid sarcoma arising from the spinal cord has not yet been reported. We review the challenges in diagnosis, surgical treatment, and oncologic outcome of this case. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management and Treatment of Orthopedic Oncology)
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