Oncology Review articles on critical topics for orthopaedic exam prep …
High-Yield Summary The AJCC staging system for soft tissue sarcomas (STS) integrates tumor size, depth, gradeand nodal/metastatic status to guide prognosis and treatment planning. Tumor grade, based on histologic differentiation, mitotic rateand necrosis, is a critical determinant of stage and survival. Depth (superficial vs. deep) and size thresholds (?5 cm, >5 cm to ?10 cm, […]
High-Yield Summary Unicameral bone cysts (UBCs) are benign, fluid-filled lesions predominantly affecting the metaphyseal region of long bones in skeletally immature patients, with the proximal humerus and femur most commonly involved. The risk of pathological fracture guides management: asymptomatic, stable cysts may be observed, while fractures or impending fractures often necessitate intervention. Imaging diagnosis relies […]
### ### High-Yield Summary – Synovial sarcoma is a high-grade soft tissue sarcoma predominantly affecting young adults, often presenting as a slow-growing, deep-seated mass near large joints, especially the knee. – Diagnosis hinges on imaging combined with biopsy and molecular confirmation of the characteristic SS18-SSX fusion gene. – Multimodal therapy with wide surgical excision, often […]
High-Yield Summary Expandable prostheses address limb-length discrepancy in pediatric oncology patients undergoing limb salvage, preserving function and growth potential. Indications hinge on predicted growth remaining and tumor location; expandable implants are preferred when >2 cm discrepancy is anticipated. Modern designs use non-invasive lengthening mechanisms (magnetic or motorized), reducing morbidity compared to earlier invasive models. Complications […]
High-Yield Summary Small round blue cell tumors (SRBCTs) represent a heterogeneous group of aggressive neoplasms characterized by undifferentiated, primitive cells with overlapping histology but distinct management pathways. Accurate diagnosis hinges on integrating clinical presentation, imaging, histopathology, immunohistochemistryand molecular genetics to avoid misclassification and inappropriate treatment. Common SRBCTs in orthopaedics include Ewing sarcoma, lymphoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, neuroblastomaand […]
High-Yield Summary Chordomas are rare, slow-growing malignant tumors arising from notochordal remnants, predominantly affecting the sacrum and mobile spine, with a predilection for local recurrence rather than distant metastasis. Surgical resection with wide margins remains the cornerstone of treatment; en bloc resection offers the best chance for local control and survival. Preoperative imaging with MRI […]
High-Yield Summary Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) of bone is a rare, intermediate-grade vascular tumor with unpredictable behavior, requiring tailored surgical management based on lesion extent and location. Diagnosis hinges on imaging combined with biopsy and immunohistochemistry, notably CD31, CD34and ERG positivity; misdiagnosis as metastatic carcinoma or angiosarcoma is common. Surgical excision with wide margins remains the […]
High-Yield Summary Adamantinoma is a rare, low-grade malignant bone tumor predominantly affecting the tibial diaphysis in young adults, requiring wide surgical excision for cure. Diagnosis hinges on imaging combined with biopsy; characteristic radiographic features include intracortical, lytic lesions with a “soap-bubble” appearance. Limb-sparing resection with clear margins is the gold standard; amputation is reserved for […]
High-Yield Summary Allografts provide biological reconstruction with potential for ligamentous and soft tissue reattachment but carry risks of nonunion, infectionand fracture. Megaprostheses offer immediate structural stability and early weight-bearing, favored in oncologic and massive bone loss cases but have higher long-term mechanical failure rates. Surgical choice hinges on patient factors, defect size, soft tissue qualityand […]
High-Yield Summary Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a benign fibro-osseous lesion caused by postzygotic activating mutations in the GNAS gene, leading to abnormal bone remodeling and structural weakness. McCune-Albright Syndrome (MAS) combines polyostotic FD with café-au-lait skin pigmentation and endocrine hyperfunction, requiring multidisciplinary management. Surgical intervention focuses on fracture prevention, deformity correction, and functional restoration, with […]
Last Updated on January 25, 2026 by Christian Veillette










