Rare Cancers Australia
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Overview
You may feel a range of emotions after a diagnosis of bone cancer and you may be wondering what happens next. You will have regular follow-up appointments to check your health, help you manage any long-term side effects, and talk about how you are feeling. You may be eligible to join a clinical trial.
It’s normal to seek support adjusting to life after treatment or working out your options if the cancer advances or comes back. At any stage, you can call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with one of our qualified professionals.
What’s on this page
Coping with primary bone cancer
Being diagnosed with a rare cancer can be distressing. The physical changes after treatment for bone cancer can affect how you feel about yourself (self-esteem) and make you feel self-conscious. It will take time to get used to the differences in how you look and what you can do.
Limb-sparing surgery is a major operation that can leave a scar and make the skin feel tight. If you have an amputation or a lot of bone is removed, you may feel grief and loss. Many people find it helps to talk to a counsellor, psychologist, friend or family member. Ask your treating team or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to find out about support services in your area.
For more information, see Emotions and cancer or Rare and less common cancers.
Follow-up appointments
After treatment, you will need regular check-ups for several years to confirm that the cancer hasn’t come back and to help you manage any treatment side effects.
How often you will need to see your doctor will vary depending on the type of bone cancer. Check-ups will become less frequent if you have no further problems. Let your doctor know immediately of any health concerns between appointments.
Should I join a clinical trial?
Over the years, clinical trials have improved treatments and led to better outcomes for people diagnosed with cancer. Talk with your doctor about the latest clinical trials and whether you’re a suitable candidate. For more information, visit Australian Cancer Trials or see Clinical trials and research.
If the cancer comes back
For some people, bone cancer does come back (recur) after treatment. The risk that bone cancer will recur is greater within the first 3 years after treatment has finished. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
In some cases of advanced primary bone cancer, treatment will focus on managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life without trying to cure the disease. Palliative treatment can relieve pain and help to manage other symptoms.
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