Bone Tumours

Bone tumours occur when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably within the bone. While many bone tumours are non-cancerous (benign), some may be malignant (cancerous) and require prompt investigation and treatment.

At The New Foscote Hospital, our specialist consultants provide expert assessment and access to advanced diagnostic imaging to investigate bone abnormalities, with timely referral pathways for any required oncology care.

What Are Bone Tumours?

A bone tumour is a mass or lesion that forms within the bone tissue. It may originate within the bone itself (primary tumour) or spread from another part of the body (secondary or metastatic tumour). Tumours can affect any bone, but commonly involve the arms, legs, and pelvis.

Symptoms of a Bone Tumour

Symptoms may vary depending on the type, size, and location of the tumour. Common signs include:

• Persistent bone pain, often worsening at night
• A noticeable lump or swelling over a bone
• Reduced joint movement or stiffness
• Bone weakness or fractures from minor injury (pathological fractures)
• Fatigue, weight loss or fever (more common in malignant cases)

Pain that does not respond to rest or standard pain relief should always be evaluated by a specialist.

Types of Bone Tumours

Benign Bone Tumours

These are non-cancerous growths and are more common than malignant tumours. Examples include:

• Osteochondroma – often found in young people near the growth plates
• Enchondroma – usually found in small bones of the hands and feet
• Giant cell tumour – typically affects the ends of long bones
• Simple bone cyst – fluid-filled lesion often found in children
• Fibrous dysplasia – abnormal development of bone tissue

Malignant Bone Tumours

These are cancerous and may require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. Examples include:

• Osteosarcoma – most common in teenagers and young adults
• Ewing sarcoma – affects children and young adults, usually in long bones or pelvis
• Chondrosarcoma – more common in adults and often found in the pelvis or shoulder
• Metastatic bone disease – secondary cancer spread from organs such as the breast, prostate, or lung

Diagnosis at The New Foscote Hospital

Prompt diagnosis is key to managing both benign and malignant bone tumours. We provide:

• Detailed clinical examination by experienced orthopaedic or musculoskeletal consultants
• X-rays to identify bone abnormalities
• MRI and CT scans to assess tumour size and involvement of surrounding tissue
• Bone biopsy, arranged with specialist centres if malignancy is suspected
• Referral for oncological input where required

All scans and tests are performed on-site with fast turnaround times.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies depending on whether the tumour is benign or malignant.

Benign Tumours

• Often monitored regularly if they are not growing or causing symptoms
• Surgical removal may be advised if the tumour is painful, affects movement, or risks fracture

Malignant Tumours

• May require surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of treatments
• We provide access to regional cancer centres and collaborate closely with oncology services
• Specialist orthopaedic oncology input is arranged for surgical planning if required

Pain relief, rehabilitation, and psychological support are key components of care.

Expert Private Care in Banbury

At The New Foscote Hospital, you’ll benefit from:

• Rapid consultant appointments
• On-site diagnostic imaging (X-ray, MRI, CT)
• Personalised care and clear communication throughout
• Integrated pathways for onward specialist or oncology care where needed

We offer reassurance and expert management from initial concern to diagnosis and beyond.

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