Side Effects of Treatment for Bone Cancer

What are the side effects of treatment for bone cancer?

Unfortunately, there are risks and side effects with each of the treatments for bone cancer. The main risks associated with surgery include infection, recurrence of the cancer, and injury to the surrounding tissues. In order to remove the entire cancer and reduce the risk of recurrence, some surrounding normal tissue must also be removed. Depending on the location of the cancer, this may require the removal of portions of bone, muscle, nerves, or blood vessels. This could cause weakness, loss of sensation, and the risk of fracture of the remaining bone. You could be referred to a rehabilitation specialist for physical and occupational therapy after surgery to try to improve your strength and function.

Chemotherapy uses very powerful medication to try to kill cancer cells. Unfortunately, some normal cells are also killed in the process. The medications are designed to kill rapidly dividing or growing cells. The normal cells that are affected often include hair, blood-forming cells, and cells lining the digestive system. Side effects include nausea and vomiting, loss of hair, infection, and fatigue. Fortunately, these side effects usually resolve after the chemotherapy is over. Good nutrition is important for your body to fight the cancer. You may be referred to nutrition specialist to help with this, especially if you experience nausea and loss of appetite.

The main side effects from radiation therapy include fatigue, loss of appetite, and damage to the surrounding skin and soft tissues. Prior radiation therapy can also increase the risk of wound problems from surgery in the same area.