Musculoskeletal tumors are classified into three categories: benign, malignant and metastatic. To learn about the difference between these, read our page on "Sarcoma Basics" [link]. Please see our Health Library for a list of all related conditions.
Malignant Tumors (sarcoma)
Malignant tumors have the capacity to spread to other parts of the body. Malignancies of the bones and muscles are called sarcomas. They are treated with surgery, combined with radiation and/or chemotherapy. Below are some common sarcomas we treat.
Benign tumors
Benign tumors do not spread from their original location and thus do not pose a risk to survival of the patient. But they can cause pain or damage tissues. Some have a tendency to come back (“recur”) after surgical removal. Below are some common benign tumors we treat.
Metastatic Bone Cancers
Metastatic bone cancers are cancers that have spread to bones They are not sarcomas. The most common cancers to spread to the bony skeleton are breast, kidney, lung, thyroid and prostate cancers as well as multiple myeloma. Treatment is aimed at reducing pain and improving the quality of life of the patient.