Treatment Approach

In collaboration with Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the Siteman Cancer Center, we diagnose and treat patients of all ages with benign, malignant, and metastatic diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Benign tumors include: 

• Osteochondromas and other cartilage lesions
• Bone cysts
• Giant cell tumors
• Nerve sheath tumors

Malignant tumors include:

 

• Osteosarcoma
• Ewing's sarcoma
• Chondrosarcoma
• Chordoma
• Soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities, chest wall and sacrum

Chordomas and other complex sacral tumors are treated with a multidisciplinary approach, including spine surgeons and  colorectal surgeons, to maximize oncologic and functional results. From a surgical standpoint, the goal is to completely remove the tumor, while persevering and maximizing extremity function. In nearly all patients with benign tumors, this can be accomplished while maintaining a functional extremity, even in patients with primary malignancy. Because of our extensive experience in limb salvage techniques, we are able to avoid amputation in more than 90 percent of surgical cases. Specific techniques used in limb reconstruction after tumor removal include: 

• Large fragment allograft reconstruction
• Metallic endoprosthetic bone and joint reconstruction
• Vascularized fibular graft reconstruction

We offer expandable endoprosthetic implants for growing children and adolescents to optimize limb length equality. In the event that amputation is required to control a tumor, we have the skill and experience to perform these procedures safely and effectively, even in technically demanding areas like hemipelvectomies  and forequarter amputations. We also coordinate prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation, from pre-operative consultation to  post-operative therapy.

For all patients, rehabilitation starts as soon as possible after surgery. Inpatient rehabilitation focuses  on teaching patients how to move and function safely with  reconstructed limbs and continues on an outpatient basis.

Patient Stories