Duke’s sarcoma specialists are nationally recognized for their diagnosis and treatment of sarcomas. You’re treated by experts in oncology and orthopaedic surgery that offer the latest treatment options to preserve healthy tissue and bone, including comprehensive limb-sparing surgeries to avoid the need for amputation. We help you improve your chances for a positive outcome.
About Sarcoma
Sarcomas are malignant tumors that affect bone, muscle, fat, and other connective tissues in the body, and are also known as osteosarcomas, bone sarcomas, or bone cancers. While there are many different types of sarcoma, the disease appears in two ways: as a mass in the bone or soft tissue. You should see a doctor if you find a lump anywhere on your body that is causing pain and also grows in size.
Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.
Tests to Identify Your Sarcoma
We have experts in every type of sarcoma to identify which kind you’re experiencing. You may have multiple tests as a way to determine the ideal and latest treatment available to minimize the chance of major surgery.
Imaging Tests
An MRI or CT scan produces high-resolution, detailed images that help us pinpoint the location of your tumor. A chest X-ray can help us determine if your cancer has spread to your lungs.
Needle Biopsy
A tissue sample is removed through a small incision, then evaluated for cancer. We use an ultrasound- or CT scan-guided biopsy to guide us to the right location in your body.
Bone Scan
A radioactive tracer injected into your bloodstream collects in your bones and helps a camera detect areas affected by cancer.
Where you receive your cancer care is important. Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why our cancer program is nationally ranked, and the highest ranked program in North Carolina, according to U.S. News & World Report for 2021–2022.
Why Choose Duke
Experienced Sarcoma Treatment Center
As a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, we offer a level of expertise found only in the top cancer centers across the country. We are also part of the Sarcoma Alliance for Research through Collaboration, a group of leading sarcoma centers in the U.S. dedicated to improving the care of sarcoma patients through research and clinical trials.
Convenient Care
You meet with a radiation oncologist, medical oncologist and orthopaedic surgeon, all on the same day. You leave your visit with a thorough understanding of your treatment options, and with a comprehensive treatment plan in place.
Computer-Navigated Cancer Surgery
Our operating rooms are equipped with intraoperative CT and MRI imaging technology that helps us carefully plan for surgery and precisely remove your tumor. Deeply rooted soft tissue and bone sarcomas can be challenging to remove completely, especially while trying to separate these tumors from important nerves and blood vessels that must remain unharmed. This technology allows our surgeons to identify your cancer and operate under the guidance of high-resolution, 3D images.
Support for You and Your Family
Our comprehensive support services range from helping to minimize the side effects of cancer treatment to coping with the emotional and psychological effects of diagnosis and treatment. View all of our cancer support groups in our event calendar.
Clinical Trial Access
You may be eligible to participate in clinical trials for sarcoma, which gives you access to new therapies before they are available elsewhere. One of our ongoing trials is testing a novel technique, developed in part by a Duke researcher. This approach uses fluorescent probes to light up a tumor so surgeons can find and remove your cancer, helping preserve more healthy muscle, bone, nerves and blood vessels than ever before.