Physicians with M Health Fairview Cancer Care are skilled in the diagnosis and treatment of bone cancer and soft tissue sarcomas. Our program is one of the largest in the upper Midwest, caring for more than 400 new patients each year.
Bone cancer can manifest in two primary ways: as a result of cancer spreading from a distant site (e.g., breast, prostate, lung), or it can originate within the bone itself, known as a sarcoma.
Soft tissue sarcomas, on the other hand, are cancers that arise within the supportive tissues of the body, encompassing muscle, fat, nerve, tendon, and other structures that surround and safeguard the body's organs. While soft tissue tumors are relatively common, the majority are benign, with the cancerous (malignant) ones being termed soft tissue sarcomas.
Physicians at the University of Minnesota and M Health Fairview Cancer Care have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating both bone cancer and soft tissue cancers. Our program comprises numerous specialized disciplines and research scientists, making it one of the largest in the country, committed to serving more than 400 new patients each year. The University of Minnesota holds a prominent position on both national and international fronts, excelling in fundamental scientific research, clinical studies, and the advancement of innovative treatments for bone and soft tissue tumors.
The Musculoskeletal Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor program was established in 1975 and has since built a renowned reputation for managing a high volume of tumor cases. Between 1990 and 2019, the program conducted over 11,000 new tumor evaluations.
Our approach
Our care team is composed of dedicated, experienced subspecialists who cover a range of fields including orthopedic surgical oncology, radiation oncology, pediatric oncology, medical oncology, pathology, and musculoskeletal radiology. This multidisciplinary approach translates to outstanding survivor rates and ensures the development of comprehensive and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.
We are pioneers in utilizing state-of-the-art techniques and technologies, including computerized navigation surgery, advanced intraoperative CT and MRI facilities, and world-class research-grade MRI capabilities at the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR).
Our commitment to delivering cutting-edge, patient-focused care distinguishes us. It empowers our team to enhance the quality of life for both patients and survivors, all while sharing our discoveries with fellow scientists, students, professionals, and the broader community.
Our holistic approach, integration of innovative technologies, and a collaborative, multidisciplinary team all contribute to our program's continued success and the positive outcomes of our patients.
Program Statistics
155
Patients with a new diagnosis of a soft tissue sarcoma under our care in 2022
26
Patients with a new diagnosis of a bone sarcoma under our care in 2022
1021
New musculoskeletal tumor evaluations performed by our team in 2024
