Lorraine’s Story

Osteosarcoma at the Distal Femur
Age at Diagnosis: 27
Year of Diagnosis: 1997

Diagnosis: I gradually noticed a swelling of my left knee which was associated with pain and discomfort. I attended my general physician who was reluctant to sent me for any x-rays as I was six and a half months pregnant at that time. I eventually was sent to the doctor in occupational health at work by my boss, who consequently sent me for a series of blood tests and x-rays. He then referred me to a specialist orthopaedic team, who placed me on crutches and I was not to weight bear on my left leg, and an MRI scan was booked. Whilst awaiting for an MRI scan I was admitted into hospital for pain control. My calf muscles on my left leg were wasting away and my leg/knee was very painful. An anesthetist specialized in pain control titrated my painkillers and added in liquid morphine following a discussion with my consultant taking into consideration that I was pregnant. I then attended for an MRI scan and CT scan on the same day and the attended the ultra sound department for a bone biopsy a couple of days later. I was then given the diagnosis of a high grade osteosarcoma of my left distal femur.

Treatment: I was informed I would require both chemotherapy and surgery. But prior to chemotherapy starting I would have to deliver my baby, I was 29 weeks pregnant. I was booked I for an elective c-section which was carried out on 14th October 1997 I had a son who lived only two days in the special care baby unit. I was then transferred to another hospital for another MRI scan and then I commenced on my first course of chemo, cisplatin and doxirubicin. After two courses of chemotherapy I went for surgery which was an endoprosthetic joint replacement of my left distal femur. This consisted of the tumour in my left leg being removed and a titanium joint from my femur to my tibia being placed in situation. Following surgery I received four further courses of chemotherapy. My consultant had informed me that my tumour margins had been clear so no radiotherapy was required.

Recovery: Following surgery I felt quite weak and depressed. Physiotherapy started 2 days post theatre I had to carry out straight leg raises and knee bends. It is very hard at first but once I had carried out the first leg raise it then seemed to the just come naturally. I went home following surgery following 9 days in hospital on crutches and in a leg brace. I then attended outpatients’ physio for approx 6 weeks. Chemotherapy was difficult all my hair had fallen out and I was vomiting and feeling nauseous, I learnt to cope with this as time went on, and near the end of my course of chemotherapy I had accepted it.

Further Treatment: I had my joint replacement revised in 2001 as it had become loose following the birth of my second child. This time the consultant has used impacted bone graft instead of cement to set the titanium joint into place.

Life Now: My life now is great, I now have two boys since having chemotherapy, this is very special to me as I was informed that there was a high chance that I may have been infertile following the chemotherapy in which I received. I am now back in work and enjoy taking my children on days out. I am able to walk without a limp, although I cannot run. I am just thankful that I am still here today.

Thoughts and Hints for New Patients: Take each day as it comes. Be positive about your diagnosis. Talk to your family and don’t hold in feelings and questions. There is a light at the end of the tunnel.