Osteosarcoma

Patients should be advised to have a low threshold for consulting their doctor. Almost anything out of the ordinary should prompt a visit to the family physician. Recurrence of pain, swelling, weight loss, and dyspnea are potential symptoms of local recurrence and pulmonary metastatic disease, and should prompt urgent specialist referral. Symptoms related to prosthetic implant failure depend on the location of the original tumor and type of implant, but may include pain, altered range of movement, and changes to gait or ability to bear weight.

Recommendations related to activity restriction depend on the location of the tumor and the type of surgery used to remove it. The patients get detailed instructions about weight bearing and range of motion from the orthopedic oncologist. They are also usually enrolled in a regular rehabilitation exercise program.