For some patients, amputation of part or all of a limb is the best option. The surgeon and medical staff will explain all of your options and you will be part of the discussion and decision-making process.
In some cases, this is the best option because:
• You might need an amputation if the bone tumor has spread into the tissues surrounding the bone and is affecting the blood vessels or nerves.
• It may be that if your surgeon only removes the tumor, there is a very high risk of the cancer coming back.
• The tumor may be in a place where the function of the limb wouldn't be very good after limb-sparing surgery, such as in the foot or ankle.
After the surgery, a specialist in false limbs (prosthetic limbs) will fit you with a prosthesis made specially for you. The limb specialist and the specialist physiotherapists will make sure you have all the help you need to learn to cope with your prosthesis.