Bernadette’s Story

Chondrosarcoma at the Sternum
Age at Diagnosis: 44
Year of Diagnosis: 2002

Diagnosis: In November 2001, whilst visiting an orthopaedic surgeon for one of my children’s sprained ankle, I mentioned to the doctor about painless hard swelling at top of sternum. He sent me for x-ray which diagnosed “probably calcifications, nothing to worry about.” He prescribed anti-inflammatory cream!

At 44 years old, in October 2002 whilst visiting same orthopaedic surgeon, again regarding one of my children, pointed out to him that the swelling seemed to have increased in size and area involved. More x-rays, then he wanted a biopsy.

I went to other general oncology surgeon who immediately sent me for MRI, where diagnosis was most likely chondroma tumor or maybe anuerysmal bone cyst. Surgeon recommended removal of tumor together with affected bone; probably reconstructive surgery would be needed; recommended going abroad where good experienced surgical team could operate (said such a team was not available in Cyprus where I live).

Treatment: December 2002, 8 hour surgery for removal of upper sternum, ends of 1st 3 ribs and heads of clavicles, with methylmethylacrilate hardened marlex mesh shaped to cover void, by Geogre Ladas, Consultant Thoracic Surgeon at Royal Brompton Heart and Chest Hospital, London, UK. 4 weeks later histopathology report arrives: chondrosarcoma grade 1, focally grade 2 – a real shock as I had believed it was benign until then. No further treatment was recommended.

Recovery: Slow but steady recovery. Had to stay in UK for 1 month after surgery as unable to fly due to both lungs having been routinely collapsed during surgery. Had physical therapy 3 times weekly for 3 months: heat treatment, ultrasound and very light arm exercises (due to having had ends of clavicles removed). Not convinced I had enough or of the right kind of therapy as I was back in Cyprus. I have follow-up MRI alternating with CT scans every six months or so which I send copies to surgeon in London. All clear so far. I visit surgeon in UK annually.

Now, 2.5 years on, some pain / discomfort most days, especially in the morning when I wake up because, I suppose, of lying in same position too long. Prosthesis has become detached from clavicle on right side, and on left side seems to “go out of joint” after certain movements, but sometimes for no reason at all. Surgeon says it can be repaired but would involve major surgery, so I have decided to learn to live with it.

Life Now: Life goes on within new limitations. I have 4 children, now aged 7-17, so am kept busy. It was hard on the children when I was away 7 weeks for surgery, especially the youngest who was only 5 then and couldn’t understand why mammy was away for Christmas and new year and he couldn’t come to stay with me. More sedentary lifestyle now, limited weight-bearing, have become terribly unfit!

Thoughts and Hints for New Patients: Find out all you can as early as possible. I found a chondrosarcoma support group 6 months after surgery. Thankfully, my surgery was carried out by an experienced surgeon who seemed to know what he was dealing with and took margins – very important as I now realise.

Don’t despair – medical miracles are being carried out.

Get other opinions if possible so that any decisions you have to make are informed decisions.