Bone Cancer Treatment Cost in India

Additional Costs

• ✅ Diagnostic Tests: Imaging tests, biopsies, blood tests, and other diagnostics required for staging and monitoring the treatment can add significantly to the overall cost.
• ✅ Post-Treatment Care: Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and follow-up visits can also contribute to the total expense.
• ✅ Travel and Accommodation: For patients traveling from other parts of India or from abroad, travel and accommodation expenses must be considered.

What is Bone Cancer ?

Bone cancer is a relatively rare condition characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells within the bones, leading to malignant tumors. It can originate within the bone itself, known as primary bone cancer, or spread to the bones from other parts of the body, which is referred to as secondary or metastatic bone cancer. Primary bone cancer is most commonly found in the long bones of the arms and legs, but it can affect any bone in the body. When bone cancer cells enter the bloodstream, they can metastasize, spreading the cancer to other parts of the body.

Types of Bone Cancer

• 1. Osteosarcoma
• 2. Chondrosarcoma
• 3. Ewing Sarcoma
• 4. Multiple Myeloma
• 5. Fibrosarcoma and Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma
• 6. Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
• 7. Chordoma

Symptoms

The symptoms of bone cancer can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, but there are several common signs to be aware of. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis for bone cancer patients, so it's important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following symptoms persistently:

1. Pain: The most common symptom of bone cancer is pain in the affected bone, which may initially be mild and worsen over time, especially at night or during activity.

2. Swelling: The area around the affected bone may become swollen and tender. Sometimes, a mass or lump can be felt through the skin.

3. Fractures: Bone cancer can weaken the bone it's in, leading to fractures with little or no trauma.

4. Mobility Issues: Cancer in the bones of the leg or arm may impair the ability to move that limb properly, causing difficulty with walking or lifting.

5. Weight Loss: Unexplained weight loss might occur in some cases of bone cancer.

6. Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or fatigued can accompany many types of cancer, including bone cancer.

7. Other Symptoms: Depending on the tumor's location, other symptoms may include fever, night sweats, or general feelings of malaise.

Risk Factors

1. Age and Gender: More common in teenagers, young adults, and males.

2. Genetic Syndromes: Increased risk with conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma.

3. Family History: Rare cases linked to family history of bone cancer.

4. Paget's Disease: Mostly affects older adults, elevating bone cancer risk.

5. Previous Radiation Therapy: Especially high-dose treatments received at a young age.

6. Benign Bone Conditions: Conditions like osteochondromas may heighten risk.

7. Chemical Exposure: Possible risk increase from exposure to certain chemicals used in plastics manufacturing.

Preparation of Surgery

1. Medical Evaluation: Your doctor will check your overall health to make sure you're ready for surgery.

2. Imaging Tests: Special scans like X-rays and MRI pictures help the doctor see inside your body and plan the surgery.

3. Blood Tests: These tests check your blood to make sure it's safe for you to have surgery.

4. Medication Check: Tell your doctor about any medicines you take, as some may need to be stopped before surgery.

5. Pre-surgery Instructions: Your doctor will tell you when to stop eating and drinking before surgery and what medicines to take.

6. Preparing at Home: Arrange for someone to help you at home after surgery, and plan how you'll get to and from the hospital.

7. Mental Preparation: Stay positive and talk to your doctor about any worries or questions you have.

Procedure

The procedure for treating bone cancer varies based on the type of cancer, its location, and how advanced it is. Here's a simplified overview of common surgical procedures and other treatments used for bone cancer:

Surgical Procedures

1. Limb-Sparing Surgery (Limb Salvage): The most common surgery for bone cancer, where the tumor is removed along with a margin of healthy tissue around it, but the limb is saved. Reconstruction with a prosthesis or bone graft may be necessary.

2. Amputation: In cases where the tumor is too large or too close to vital structures to be removed safely, or if limb-sparing surgery is not possible for other reasons, the affected limb may be amputated to remove the cancer completely.

3. Curettage and Cryosurgery: For some types of bone tumors, the cancerous cells are scraped out (curettage), and the area may be treated with liquid nitrogen (cryosurgery) to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Additional Treatments

Chemotherapy: Often used before surgery to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove, or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. It's also the main treatment for cancers that cannot be completely removed surgically.

Radiation Therapy: Used in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy for certain types of bone cancer, especially those where surgery is difficult, or to relieve symptoms in advanced cancers.

Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These newer treatments may be options for some types of bone cancer, especially if traditional treatments are not effective.

Post Procedure

After undergoing surgery for bone cancer, the post-procedure care and recovery phase is crucial for optimal healing and rehabilitation. Here's a concise guide to what you can expect and how to care for yourself following surgery:

• 1. Pain Management: Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for pain relief. You may be prescribed medications to manage pain effectively.
• 2. Wound Care: Care for your surgical site as instructed. This may include keeping the area clean and dry, and changing dressings if required.
• 3. Physical Therapy: Participate in physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and mobility in the affected area. This is crucial for your recovery and long-term functionality.
• 4. Activity Restrictions: Adhere to any activity restrictions to prevent injury to the surgical site. Gradually increase your activity level according to your healthcare provider's guidance.
• 5. Follow-Up Visits: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon and oncologist to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
• 6. Nutrition: Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support healing. You may be referred to a nutritionist for tailored dietary advice.
• 7. Hydration: Keep yourself well-hydrated, which is essential for recovery.
• 8. Rest: Ensure you get enough rest. Sleep aids recovery and healing.
• 9. Monitor for Complications: Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as fever, increased pain, redness, or discharge at the surgical site. Report these to your healthcare provider immediately.

Success Rate

The success rate of bone cancer treatment varies significantly depending on several factors, including the type of bone cancer, its stage at diagnosis, the patient's age and overall health, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. Here's a general overview based on these variables:

Type and Stage of Bone Cancer

Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma: These types of bone cancer, which primarily affect children and young adults, tend to have a better prognosis when diagnosed early and treated aggressively. For localized osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 60-70%. However, for patients with metastatic disease at diagnosis, the 5-year survival rates drop significantly, often to less than 30%.

Chondrosarcoma: Generally has a higher survival rate because it tends to grow and spread more slowly than other types. The 5-year survival rate can vary from 70-90% for low-grade tumors that are localized but drops for high-grade or metastatic cases.

Treatment Modalities

Success rates can improve with the combination of surgery (often limb-sparing surgery), chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation therapy, depending on the cancer type. The effectiveness of treatment is higher when the cancer is localized and can be fully removed surgically.

Age and Overall Health

Younger patients and those in good overall health often have better outcomes due to a higher tolerance for aggressive treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.