ABSTRACT
A tumour (neoplasm) is a mass of tissue formed as a result of abnormal, excessive or inappropriate proliferation of cells. Growth continues independently of the normal mechanisms that determine cellular turnover, division or programmed cell death. Tumours may present in a variety of ways to the orthopaedic surgeon in either bone or soft tissue or both. A critical aspect in the recognition of a tumour in bone and soft tissue is being aware of the possibility of its presence. Plain film radiography can determine whether or not a lesion is likely to be 'aggressive' or 'nonaggressive'. Tissue may be obtained for histological analysis by percutaneous (fine-needle/core-needle), or open (incisional/excisional) biopsy techniques. The complexity of the management of bone tumours, diagnosis, staging and treatment dictates referral to specialist centres. Malignant tumour management is a sequential process of life saving, limb-salvage and restoration of function treatments. The most commonly used method of reconstruction for bony resection is that of massive endoprosthetic replacement.
