Childhood Osteosarcoma Treatment
The most common treatment for osteosarcoma is a combination of chemotherapy and surgery to remove the cancer and some healthy tissue. Treatment may first begin with chemotherapy, then surgery and follow with adjuvant therapy, a post-surgery treatment that may include chemotherapy, radiation, hormone or biological therapy with the goal to destroy remaining cancer cells.
Adjuvant chemotherapy is now considered the standard treatment for osteosarcoma at MD Anderson. Radiation therapy is also another option, which uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells as it shrinks the tumor.
At one time, nearly all children with osteosarcoma had to undergo amputation of part of the leg or arm with the tumor. Today, doctors are typically able to perform “limb-sparing” surgery to remove the tumor without amputation. If amputation is not required, doctors will place an artificial device in the area where the bone was removed.
If your child has been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, we’re here to help. Call 1-877-632-6789 to make an appointment or request an appointment online.
Our Childhood Osteosarcoma Clinical Trials
The most innovative treatments for childhood osteosarcoma are offered as part of clinical trials, which are closely monitored studies to test the safety and effectiveness of new treatments. Go to MD Anderson's list of current pediatric clinical trials to see if your child might be eligible.
You can also visit our Clinical Trials database or speak to your doctor.
Why Choose MD Anderson?
- The Children’s Cancer Hospital is within the No. 1 cancer center in America
- Access to novel therapies and state-of-the-art technologies before most children’s hospitals
- We see more types of cancer than any other children’s hospital in Texas
- Family-centered care that actively involves parents in their child’s treatment
- A strong cancer research program focused on developing new therapies for pediatric patients
- Comprehensive support services such as an accredited school program, creative arts, child life and career counseling
- An Adolescent and Young Adult Program that specializes in the unique medical and psychological needs of patients aged 15-25
Childhood Osteosarcoma Knowledge Center
Treatment at MD Anderson
Childhood osteosarcoma is treated in our: