Has osteosarcoma ever been cured?

Osteosarcoma can be cured, but the treatment effect is closely related to the time of discovery, tumor size, degree of spread and treatment method. Through early diagnosis combined with surgery, chemotherapy and other means, there is a chance to achieve long-term survival or even cure.

1) Early diagnosis and treatment

Osteosarcoma is a primary malignant bone tumor that usually occurs in adolescents. If the disease can be detected in the early stages and treated promptly, the chances of cure will be greatly increased. Regular physical examinations and paying attention to symptoms such as bone pain, joint discomfort, and local lumps can help you seek medical attention in a timely manner. If osteosarcoma is suspected, doctors usually use X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT scans, and pathological biopsies to confirm the diagnosis.

2) Detailed explanation of treatment methods

The treatment of osteosarcoma is usually based on comprehensive therapy, including surgical resection, chemotherapy and adjuvant therapy.

-Surgical treatment: The first choice is tumor resection, including limb-sparing surgery and amputation. Limb-sparing surgery is suitable for cases where the tumor has not extensively invaded the surrounding tissues, and the tumor can be removed while preserving limb function; amputation is suitable for patients with more serious conditions, and the tumor can be completely removed to prevent spread.

-Chemotherapy: Most osteosarcoma patients require preoperative chemotherapy to reduce the size of the tumor and postoperative chemotherapy to remove possible residual lesions. Commonly used drugs include doxorubicin, cisplatin and ifosfamide. Combination chemotherapy can significantly improve survival rates.

-Adjuvant therapy: including radiotherapy (for patients who cannot undergo surgery) and postoperative rehabilitation training and psychological support. Accumulating strength and maintaining mental health are the keys to long-term victory over the disease.

3) Prognosis and long-term management

The prognosis of osteosarcoma varies greatly, which is related to the degree of tumor invasion and the patient's age and physical condition. Studies have shown that after standardized treatment, the 5-year survival rate of patients with localized osteosarcoma is about 60%-80%. Patients should have regular follow-up examinations after treatment, especially to monitor for metastasis or recurrence. Pay attention to strengthening nutrition, eating a reasonable diet, enhancing the body's immune function, and try to avoid infections such as colds.

Although the treatment of osteosarcoma is challenging, patients can expect to have a longer survival period or even be completely cured through early detection, active intervention, and standardized management. It is recommended that if abnormal symptoms such as bone pain and limited mobility occur, seek medical attention immediately to ensure a clear diagnosis and effective treatment as soon as possible. For patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma, they should follow the doctor's advice, receive scientific treatment, and build confidence.