Bone diaphysis metastases from the perspective of an orthopedic surgeon – review

Abstract

Bone metastases are a great challenge in the practice of an orthopedic surgeon. Due to the development of oncological treatment, the approach to patients with bone metastases is changing. Previously, these patients were treated palliatively, mainly to decrease the pain intensity. However, with appropriate systemic, surgical and orthopedic treatment, patients with bone metastases often live for many years. Therefore, proper diagnosis and appropriate orthopedic treatment can significantly improve patients’ prognosis. On the other hand, poor qualification for surgery and selection of the wrong treatment method contribute to shortening the patients’ survival. Hence, knowledge of the diagnosis and qualification of patients for surgical treatment is essential in the practice of an orthopedist. In the presented review, the authors focused on summarizing the knowledge in the field of diagnostics, qualification for surgical treatment and orthopedic treatment methods for patients with bone diaphysis metastases.