Most patients who are suspected of having a bone or soft tissue tumour (often called sarcoma), will have one or more scans of the affected area.
Many patients also need a biopsy, where samples of tissue is taken from the tumour for testing.
Scans
Patients may have one or more scans:
Ultrasound scan
ultrasound scan – a straightforward and quick examination which can often be done when you attend the clinic (although you may need to wait). An ultrasound is a good way of looking to see if a tumour is worrying.
MRI scan
MRI scans – many patients also need an MRI scan. This takes longer than an ultrasound and usually needs a separate appointment. An MRI gives more detail about the size and location of the tumour.
CT Scan
CT scan – some patients might need a CT scan, which scans the whole body – in particular the chest, abdomen and pelvis – to look for malignant tumours and for any spread of malignant tumours.
Biopsy
If a biopsy is needed, it can often be done under local anaesthetic in the outpatient department using a needle.
Usually biopsies are carried out by the radiology team under ultrasound guidance. Occasionally a biopsy guided by a CT scanner is best – this depends on the size and location of the tumour
Depending on the tumour and the patient, people need an operation under general anaesthetic to carry out a biopsy.
Treatment plan
Once we have the results of diagnostic tests, our expert team will recommend a course of treatment which we will discuss with you.
More information
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