What is the treatment for peripheral chondrosarcoma?

Peripherally located chondrosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor that primarily originates from cartilage on the bone surface. The treatment plan should take into consideration the tumor's size, location, grade, and the patient's overall health status. Below are some common treatment approaches:

1. Surgical resection: This is the main treatment method for peripheral chondrosarcoma. Wide resection is the primary surgical approach, particularly suitable for Grade II and Grade III chondrosarcomas. Marginal resection may be applied for some Grade I or borderline tumors, mainly because of their low recurrence rate and the possibility of cure even after recurrence. This approach is often combined with limb-sparing surgery. Amputation may be considered for extensive tumors when other surgical options are not feasible, ensuring wide resection margins.

2. Chemotherapy: Although peripheral chondrosarcoma has low sensitivity to chemotherapy, it may be used in certain situations, such as high-grade, large-volume, or metastatic cases, to reduce tumor size, relieve symptoms, or serve as adjuvant therapy before or after surgery.

3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy can be used preoperatively to reduce tumor volume or postoperatively to prevent recurrence, especially when surgical margins are inadequate. For patients who are not candidates for surgical resection, radiation therapy can serve as the primary treatment modality.

4. Pharmacological therapy: Chemotherapeutic agents such as vincristine, paclitaxel, cisplatin, and others may be used as adjuvant treatment measures.

5. Rehabilitation and supportive care: Physical therapy may be necessary after surgery to help restore limb function, and psychological and social support should be provided to improve the patient's quality of life.