Subspecialty Team at Hackensack University Medical Center Advances Sarcoma Treatment

Multidisciplinary collaboration key to implementation and clinical study of latest bone and soft tissue sarcoma treatments at New Jersey’s highest-volume sarcoma program

As home to New Jersey’s busiest sarcoma treatment program, Hackensack University Medical Center is embracing the latest treatments for both bone and soft tissue sarcomas, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies currently in clinical trial.

“In soft tissue sarcomas, immunotherapy and targeted therapy medications are expanding,” Hackensack University Medical Center orthopedic oncologist Francis Patterson, M.D., said. “These treatments depend on factors that prevent specific tumor cell growth.”

There are several ongoing open trials regarding soft tissue sarcomas and targeted at immunotherapy at Hackensack University Medical Center.

Bone sarcomas, which most often affect adolescents, present the unique challenge of accommodating future bone growth while addressing tumors. Hackensack University Medical Center offers the latest evolutions of metal prostheses that are expandable without incision, via magnetic lengthener or internal gear crank. These options allow for bone growth without additional incisions necessary, minimizing infection risk.

Additionally, allografts applying donated tissue for bone reconstruction and lengthening are also performed at Hackensack University Medical Center.

The highly specialized sarcoma team at Hackensack Meridian Health includes orthopedic oncologists, adult and pediatric medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists. Bone sarcomas are typically treated with chemotherapy, while radiation may be applied for soft tissue sarcomas, or new immunotherapy or targeted therapies. The multidisciplinary sarcoma team meets biweekly to discuss all active patient cases, and offers care at locations across the Hackensack Meridian Health network.

Learn more about innovative orthopedic care at Hackensack University Medical Center.