Metastatic bone disease: Early referral for multidisciplinary care.

It is estimated that more than half of all cancers develop bony metastases, exacting a substantial cost in terms of patient quality of life and healthcare expenses. Prompt diagnosis and management have been shown to reduce morbidity and costs. When a patient with a history of cancer presents with musculoskeletal pain, heightened awareness of the risk of bone metastasis should prompt immediate referral to an orthopedic specialist.

The role of external fixation in paediatric limb lengthening and deformity correction.

Limb deformity and shortening remains a common presenting complaint in paediatric orthopaedics. The ability to restore length, alignment with consistent bone formation allows standardised treatment in these difficult conditions. The use of an external fixator produces a stable construct which allows manipulation of the bone segments, with a controlled rate and rhythm.