The patient presented with swelling and a discharging sinus in the left gluteal region (buttock), which was diagnosed as extraosseous osteosarcoma, affecting less than 4% of osteosarcoma cases globally. This rare cancer variant required a specialized and coordinated treatment approach.
The multidisciplinary tumor board at AOI, Mangalagiri developed a comprehensive treatment plan for the patient. Medical oncologist N. Subba Rao initiated neoadjuvant chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery. Surgical oncologist Eshant Inapuri then performed the surgery, carefully removing the tumor along with a wide area of surrounding tissue to ensure no cancer cells remained. To close the surgical wound, Dr. Inapuri used a special technique, taking tissue from the patient’s thigh and rotating it to cover the area where the tumor had been removed.
Post-surgery, the patient’s recovery was smooth, and she was discharged just five days after the surgery. Doctors noted that she was able to walk normally and her follow-up care has been without complications. She continues to undergo adjuvant chemotherapy for a full recovery.
About Dr. N. Subba Rao
Dr. N. Subba Rao is a highly experienced and respected medical oncologist based in Vijayawada, with over 26 years of expertise in the fields of medical oncology and radiotherapy. Currently serving as a Senior Medical Oncologist at the American Oncology Institute in Mangalagiri, Vijayawada, Dr. Subba Rao is renowned for his ability to handle complex cancer cases with a high level of professionalism and care. His extensive knowledge and clinical acumen have made him one of the most sought-after oncologists in the region.
Dr. Subba Rao has a deep understanding of cancer diagnosis, assessment, and treatment planning, allowing him to provide tailored care for each patient. He specializes in creating comprehensive treatment plans that address the specific needs of cancer patients, ensuring they receive the best possible care throughout their journey. His expertise spans various forms of cancer, and he is known for his holistic approach to treatment, focusing on both medical and emotional aspects of patient care.
Dr. Subba Rao plays a crucial role in guiding and mentoring his team members. He is a strong advocate for patient counselling, ensuring that patients and their families are well-informed and supported throughout the treatment process. His leadership and commitment to excellence in patient care have earned him recognition as a compassionate and skilled oncologist, dedicated to improving the quality of life for his patients.
About Dr. Eshant Inapuri
Dr. Inapuri completed his MBBS followed by an MS in General Surgery at NRI Medical College, Chinakakani. He further pursued an MCh in Surgical Oncology from Yenepoya Medical College Hospital in Mangalore, which is affiliated with the Zulekha Yenepoya Institute of Oncology Tata Trust. His commitment to expanding his knowledge and expertise is demonstrated by his fellowships in Minimal Access Surgery and Robotic Surgery, as well as his observership in Thoracic Oncology at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Hospital in Delhi and Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital.
Dr. Eshant Inapuri is dedicated to providing the best possible cancer care and has built a strong reputation for achieving high patient satisfaction. His focus on delivering personalized treatment plans and his ability to employ cutting-edge surgical techniques have made him a trusted name in the field. Patients appreciate his compassionate approach and commitment to delivering the highest standards of care throughout their treatment journey.
About Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that primarily develops in the cells responsible for bone formation. While it is most commonly found in teenagers and young adults, it can also affect children and older adults. The cancer typically originates in the long bones of the legs, and occasionally in the arms, though it can also occur in other bones. In rare cases, osteosarcoma can develop in soft tissue outside the bones. The symptoms usually include bone or joint pain, swelling near the bone, and sometimes fractures without an obvious cause. Early symptoms may be mistaken for growing pains, which is why it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider if any persistent symptoms arise.
The exact cause of osteosarcoma remains unclear, but it is believed to occur when bone cells develop mutations in their DNA. These genetic changes prompt the cells to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can invade and destroy healthy tissue. Cancerous cells may also spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or other bones, in a process called metastasis. While the specific cause of these mutations is not fully understood, there are known risk factors, such as certain inherited conditions (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome), prior radiation or chemotherapy treatment, and some bone disorders like Paget’s disease.
The treatment of osteosarcoma has made significant advances, improving the overall prognosis. However, the aggressive nature of the cancer means that treatment often involves surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes radiation. While these treatments are life-saving, they can cause serious long-term side effects, including complications from surgery such as amputation or the need for a prosthetic limb. Osteosarcoma can also metastasize, making the treatment and recovery process more difficult. Despite these challenges, healthcare providers work closely with patients to manage both the immediate and long-term effects of the disease and its treatment, offering strategies for coping with the physical and emotional toll of the cancer journey.