Multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and management of osteosarcoma - A review of the St Vincent's Hospital experience

Abstract

Background: Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumour in children and young adults. Despite advances in the diagnosis and management of osteosarcoma, there have been few recent studies describing the experiences of tertiary referral centres. This paper aims to describe and discuss the clinical features, pre-operative work-up, management and outcomes of these patients at St Vincenes Hospital (Melbourne, Australia). Methods: Retrospective study of fifty-nine consecutive patients managed for osteosarcoma at St Vincent's Hospital between 1995 and 2005. Results: Median age at diagnosis was 21 (range, 11-84) years. Gender distribution was similar, with thirty-one male and twent..