Orthopedic Oncology (Bone Tumors)
Look to UC San Diego Health for expert bone cancer treatment. Our orthopedic oncology team puts you at the center of everything they do.
We are a primary and secondary bone cancer (orthopedic oncology) referral center and offer the most advanced treatment options, including limb-sparing surgeries.
We're the region's only medical center recognized for our expertise in sarcomas by the Sarcoma Foundation of America and Sarcoma Alliance, two highly respected patient advocacy groups. We are also recognized by the Sarcoma Alliance for Research Through Collaboration, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting sarcoma research.
These distinctions mean we have the familiarity and knowledge — and advanced technologies and approaches — to accurately diagnose and treat your disease.
Nationally Ranked Cancer Care
UC San Diego Health is consistently ranked among the top 50 in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report. In 2025-26, we are proud to be ranked No. 41.
We are also the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. This is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you'll receive the best possible care and support. Studies show patient outcomes are better at NCI-designated cancer centers.
Types of Bone Tumors
We diagnose and treat all types of bone tumors, including both benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) masses. These conditions may include:
- Osteosarcoma
- Chondrosarcoma
- Ewing sarcoma
- Giant cell tumor of bone
- Tenosynovial giant cell tumor
- Secondary or metastatic bone cancer
Bone Cancer Diagnosis and Biopsy
Diagnostic imaging: Your doctor may recommend computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose bone tumors. Imaging can also be used to see whether the tumor has spread to nearby soft tissue.
Biopsy: Your doctor may also recommend a biopsy, in which a tumor sample is taken from your bone and analyzed under a microscope by a pathologist. This can confirm a cancer diagnosis. We perform image-guided biopsies for more accurate results.
Orthopedic Oncology Care Team
At UC San Diego Health, your care is led by a multidisciplinary team of doctors who specialize in bone tumors.
Your Multidisciplinary Care Team
Your team may also include medical and surgical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists and others.
Comprehensive, Personalized Treatments for Bone Cancers
Receive a treatment plan that's optimal for your type and stage of cancer.
Surgery
Bone cancer is generally treated with surgery. UC San Diego Health surgeons are experienced in advanced surgeries that prevent the need to amputate an arm or leg. These limb-sparing surgeries are transformative in protecting your quality of life. They are a specialty service at UC San Diego Health, often unavailable at community hospitals.
Radiation Therapy
Although surgery is the primary treatment approach, radiation therapy is often used to shrink a tumor before surgery or after surgery to destroy any cancer cells left behind. UC San Diego Health radiation oncologists use the most advanced technologies available to precisely target cancer cells and reduce damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Drug therapy
Drug therapy — including chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy —can be used alone or together with other approaches to help control cancer growth. At UC San Diego Health, patients have access to medical oncologists who specialize in bone cancer and sarcomas, a rare and complex group of cancers. They provide expert care with a full range of standard treatments and access to the latest therapies through clinical trials.
Second Opinion Services
When you have a diagnosis as serious as cancer, you deserve a second opinion on your treatment options.
Clinical Trials
Advancing Cancer Care and Prevention
UC San Diego Health physicians are actively researching ways to improve cancer care. By joining a clinical trial, you may receive a new cancer treatment before it is available to the public. If your cancer has not responded to standard therapies, talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.
Patient & Family Support Services
At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.
Location
Helpful Links
From Models to Medicine: Finding Cancer Sooner, Treating It Smarter
UC San Diego Health launches early detection and prevention of cancer initiative to increase awareness and access to prevention and screenings.
The Five Health Screenings Every Woman Needs
The Top five preventive health screenings for women — from Pap smears to colonoscopies — that can help women keep their health on the right track.
Expanding Cancer Care with McGrath Outpatient Pavilion
Moores Cancer Center at UC San Diego Health expands access to world-class care and clinical trials across San Diego and into Riverside and Imperial counties.