Week of 2/12 - 2/16

This past week in ISM I have finalized my plan for my final product. With this plan, I have began researching in order to obtain an understanding of Osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma. Through my research I learned, Osteosarcoma, at the most basic level, is treated through surgery and chemotherapy. A combination of these different treatments is needed to treat a patient in stages. From my research I have learned how many different areas of expertise are required for the treatment of an individual with Osteosarcoma. Because of this, doctors must work in a team, in order to successfully treat a patient. I also gained a wider understanding of the role of an orthopedic surgeon in the field. The role of an orthopedic surgeon in the treatment of a child with Osteosarcoma, is crucial. Imaging such as MRI’s and X-rays need to be analyzed by an orthopedic surgeon prior to even a biopsy. Not analyzing the imaging properly could jeopardize the ability to have a limb-sparing procedure. Ewing's Sarcoma, is similar to Osteosarcoma in most regards. Ewing’s is the 2nd most common type of childhood bone cancers. It is most common in the pelvis, thigh, lower leg, and upper arm. Like, Osteosarcoma a team approach is necessary when treating a patient with Ewing’s Sarcoma. Having knowledge regarding these diseases will be crucial as I begin working on my final product.