Bone tumors of the extremities or pelvis treated by microwave-induced hyperthermia

From July 1992 through March 1999, 213 patients with malignant bone tumors of the extremities (176 patients) and pelvis (37 patients) were treated by microwave-induced hyperthermia. Osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma were the most common diagnoses. The limb-salvage procedure was done as follows: After separating the tumor-bearing bone and the extraosseous mass from surrounding normal tissues with a proper margin, microwave energy was delivered into the tumor while the healthy tissues were protected carefully from overheating. Restrengthening of the devitalized bone was necessary in many cases. The eschar resulting from the heat necrosis was curettaged. Most patients can walk early with a partial weightbearing brace for support. The survival rate was 73.9%. Fracture, local recurrence, and infection were the main complications although the majority of complications occurred early in the study. Thermotherapy is a novel and effective way to treat bone tumors in selected patients.