Bone Tumors and Reconstructive Options in Pediatric and Young Adult Patients

Sarcomas represent less than 1% of adult cancers but account for approximately 21% of pediatric malignancies and pose great risks for mortality and morbidity in children and young adults. Both benign bone and soft-tissue tumors may not be life-threatening but can be limb-threatening. Missed diagnosis, misdiagnosis, and mismanagement of either benign or malignant tumors may lead to increased mortality and morbidity. A good understanding of the clinical presentation, radiographic findings, and treatment options is needed to make the proper diagnosis and successfully treat these patients. Children and young adults present unique challenges in the management these tumors. Often, there is no right or wrong answer. Surgeons must work with patients and their families to make the right reconstructive decision.