Aggressive bone tumours: what a radiologist can offer to the surgeon?

Abstract

The complexity of aggressive bone tumours necessitates a comprehensive approach that combines radiological assessments with clinical and pathological findings. Radiologists offer valuable insights to surgeons throughout the diagnostic and therapeutic journey, enhancing the precision and efficacy of surgical interventions. Radiologists contribute to definitive diagnosis in the majority of benign and certain aggressive tumours, although the complexity of aggressive bone tumours often requires histopathological confirmation. They assist in characterizing tumours and evaluating their extension, providing critical information for treatment planning. Radiologists guide biopsy procedures, ensuring representative tissue samples while minimizing morbidity and the risk of tumour spread. In preoperative planning, radiologists construct detailed 3D reconstructions of tumours, aiding surgeons in strategizing surgical approaches and anticipating challenges. During surgery, radiologists offer intraoperative guidance through techniques like image fusion and intraoperative MRI, enhancing surgical precision. Post-surgical surveillance for tumour recurrence heavily relies on radiological imaging, with functional MR sequences providing valuable insights. Radiologists also play a significant role in image-guided therapeutic interventions for aggressive bone tumours, offering procedures like osteoplasty and ablation techniques for pain relief and tumour control. In conclusion, radiologists are indispensable members of the multidisciplinary team and offer expertise in diagnosis, biopsy guidance, preoperative planning, intraoperative guidance, post-surgical surveillance, and interventional therapy. Their collaborative efforts significantly optimize patient’s outcome and quality of life.