Through an X-ray, CT Scan and MRI, I found out that I have a tumor. Seems as if percutaneous radiofrequency ablation or bone graft with filling are the two ways they treat it. The first is the old method and the latter is the latest method. What are the pros and cons of each? How is recovery? I stand all day working in a factory (lifting, bending and everything else). I have been off for some time but what can happen if I continue this type of work? Please help me? I had injury and surgery on myknees already and low back and hip pain.

I was diagnosed originally with PFD (polyostoitic fibrous dysplasia) based on xrays, CT, and MRI scans. PFD is benign fibrous tumors. I had surgery to place a rod down my left femur with some screws to attach it to my hip joint. Surgery was pretty rough and recovery longer than I expected (about 8-10 weeks of PT). I can explain in further details if you wish.
Then I learned about 2 years later that I actually have a different bone disease, but it wouldn't have changed the femur surgery requirement or outcome. They attempted a bone graft to my left elbow (also afflicted) and it did not take.
Your orthopedic surgeon needs to be as sure as possible what type of tumor you have prior to surgery. He/she can't be conclusive on your diagnosis until the tumor has been biopsied. But they can give you an idea of what the initial diagnosis might be. If your surgeon can't, it might be time to look for an orthopedic oncologist (they treat benign tumors too).
Just my two cents.

Hi Rudie. Sorry to hear about your tumor!!!

Unfortunately, bones take a long time to heal; especially if you smoke (dont' ask how I know that part). I had a tumor as well, and had the bone graft. It did take a long time to heal.

It does depend on the amount of bone that will have to be removed, too. My original tumor went over halfway through my left tibia. After removal, that left about 1/2 - 1 inch of bone for about a 4 inch section of my leg. Something that extensive is going to take time.

Hopefully, yours was found soon enough and is small enough that you won't take as long as me to heal.

Good Luck.

Tara

Oh, I forgot to tell you. If you are going to need to be on crutches, get them before your surgery and learn how to use them. Stairs are very tricky if you only have one leg to use!

T

Up with the good, down with the bad. Just remember this and you will have it made. I still fal occassionally, I too had a tumor on my "knee" and now have a limb salvage prosthesis. They did a resection , which is a fancy way of saying amputation if you ask me. Most of my drs say above the knee amputation so I do too.
Always use your cane on your "good" side and you will be strong. Do your PT. Aqua jogging is the best , any water theray is good for you, no impact.