Cancer Leading To Amputation

Cancer can lead to amputation, particularly if there is a delay in diagnosis, a misdiagnosis or if it is poorly managed, or complications arise.

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An amputation may be necessary as part of cancer treatment if a tumour or cancerous growth involves important structures, including major blood vessels, nerves, or bone, and it cannot be safely removed without harming the function of the affected limb.

Several types of cancer may involve amputations as part of their treatment, including:
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• Bone cancer (e.g., osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma). *Link to sarcoma section in Cancer service.
• Soft tissue sarcomas.
• Skin cancer (e.g., melanoma). *Link to skin cancer section in Cancer service.
• Peripheral nerve tumours.
• Extensive or recurrent tumours where cancer has spread within the limb.
• Advanced-stage cancers that have spread extensively to other parts of the body.