How is surgery used to treat rhabdomyosarcoma?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Surgery is the most common treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma. Usually, doctors will try to remove only the tumor and a small amount of the healthy tissue around it. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be used after surgery to kill any cancer cells that may be left. Amputation, or surgical removal of a limb, may be used as a last resort when the cancer has spread into the bone and muscle of a limb and would be impossible to remove without amputation. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about surgery for your child's rhabdomyosarcoma.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Musculoskeletal Cancers

Cancers of the musculoskeletal system affects our bodys muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, joints and cartilage. For unknown reasons, cells that help us form our muscles, bones and connective tissues become damaged, leading to several cancers of this system, which helps us move our bodies. Many of these diseases are more common in children than adults. Rhabdomyosarcoma (pronounced RAB-doh-MY-oh-sar-KOH-muh) causes cancerous tumors to develop in the head, neck, bladder and reproductive organs. The Ewing Family of Tumors (EFTs) cause rare cancers of the bone and soft tissues found in our arms, legs, head, neck and trunk. The most common type of bone cancer, osteosarcoma weakens the connective tissues and minerals that give our bones strength. Most musculoskeletal cancers are rare but can be difficult to treat. Early detection is key to improving your outcome. See your doctor if you or your child have a lump that grows or does not disappear, find blood in your urine or have bone pain.

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