Sarcoma Program
Sarcomas are rare and complex cancers, requiring the expertise you can find at a specialty cancer institute like the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute. Your care team includes highly specialized sarcoma experts who collaborate to develop a treatment plan tailored to you and the bone or soft tissue sarcoma type you've been diagnosed with.
Sarcoma Care You Can Count On
When you're a sarcoma patient at the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, you're seen by a team of specialists - including expert tumor surgeons (orthopedic oncologists for musculoskeletal tumors, gynecologic oncologists for gyn sarcomas, or oncologic surgeons for other sarcomas), experienced radiation oncologists and medical oncologists - who focus on diagnosing and treating rare and complex tumors. From limb-sparing surgery and innovative radiation therapy to cutting-edge targeted treatments, we customize care to your unique case. You also have access to exciting clinical trials offering promising new sarcoma treatment options.
We know having a team of renowned experts is the most important factor in your cancer care, but it's not the only quality you're looking for. You also need a team that listens, supports, and guides you.
With more than 100 years as a cancer care leader in the Puget Sound, the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute is committed to providing clinical excellence and compassionate sarcoma treatment - and helping you focus on healing.
Sarcoma Conditions We Treat
We provide comprehensive care for sarcomas and related conditions, including soft tissue, bone, and rare tumor types, for the following:
- Chondrosarcoma
- Ewing Sarcoma
- Osteosarcoma
- Gynecologic Sarcomas (Including Uterine)
- Leiomyosarcoma
- Liposarcoma
- Rhabdomyosarcoma
- Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma
Meet Our Sarcoma Team
At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, you'll be cared for by a tightly connected group of specialists who bring deep expertise and a personalized approach to treatment, prevention, and long-term wellness. Gynecologic sarcomas are treated by our Gynecology Oncology team. All of our sarcoma experts work collaboratively to support your health through every stage of care.
Testing & Diagnostics
Our sarcoma specialists use advanced testing and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type, stage, and unique characteristics of your sarcoma.
A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to determine whether cancer cells are present. It’s a common and reliable diagnostic method used to determine the presence of cancer cells. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is used to remove a small sample of tissue or fluid. A core needle biopsy removes a slightly larger tissue sample, and a surgical biopsy may be needed if a larger sample is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Genetic tests, also known as genetic screenings, DNA tests, or chromosomal tests, predict your risk of developing certain malignancies, especially if you have a family history of cancer. We offer treatment, management, and prevention plans that are personalized to your unique genetic profile.
Different types of imaging may be recommended based on the suspected type and location of the tumor. MRI uses radio frequency waves and a magnetic field to create detailed images of organs and tissues. PET/CT scans combine two types of imaging to show both the structure and function of tissues. X-rays are used to evaluate suspected cancer in bones, tissues, and organs, providing a fast, effective view of abnormalities. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the body's internal organs.
Advanced Treatments for Sarcoma
The most effective treatment plan is one personalized for you and targeted to the unique characteristics of your tumor. Depending on your condition, you may receive one or more of the following treatments:
Available Options for Clinical Trials and Research
We're committed to furthering cancer research because we're committed to finding you the best treatment. Your care team will proactively tell you about any of the ongoing clinical trials that might be a fit for your treatment plan.
Awards & Accreditations
The Providence Swedish Cancer Institute is nationally recognized for excellence in cancer care, research, and patient outcomes. Our dedication to advancing cancer treatment has earned accreditations and distinctions from some of the most respected institutions in the country.
American College of Radiology (ACR) - Diagnostic Imaging Center of Excellence
American College of Surgeons (ACS) - Commission on Cancer Accredited Program
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) - Accreditation Program for Excellence (APEx)
Patient Resources & Support
Frequently Asked Questions
You may receive care from board-certified specialists in orthopedic oncology, surgical oncology, gynecologic oncology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.
Our multidisciplinary team also includes oncology nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and other cancer experts who support you throughout your care. Your physicians work closely together - participating in cross-departmental tumor boards with other Providence Swedish specialists - to create a treatment plan tailored to you. Although your care is team-based, you'll continue to have regular appointments with your lead physician, who stays closely involved and helps coordinate your treatment every step of the way.
Cancer often requires a combination of approaches to achieve the best outcome, so it’s likely your care plan could include more than one type of treatment.
Surgery alone might be enough for early-stage cancer that hasn’t spread, but additional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or biological therapy may be needed to target cancer cells throughout the body, reduce the risk of recurrence, or improve overall effectiveness.
Our cancer experts tailor treatment to your specific diagnosis, working to achieve the highest likelihood of success.
Most sarcomas occur without a clear cause. There are some genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome or neurofibromatosis, that can increase the risk of developing sarcomas. Sometimes sarcomas may develop years after radiation therapy or certain types of chemotherapy for another condition. In most cases, however, sarcoma development is believed to be random and unpredictable.
Most sarcomas are not inherited, but there are some genetic conditions that can increase the risk of developing certain sarcoma types. If you have a family history of sarcomas or other cancers, our genetic counselors can help assess your risk and recommend screenings or prevention strategies as needed.
If you're feeling unsure about your pathology report – which explains details like the type, size, and stage of your cancer based on lab results – our team is here to help.
We will walk you through the report, answering questions so that you feel informed and confident about your diagnosis and treatment options.
We provide a full range of supportive care services to support you during and after your cancer treatment. Some of these services include:
- Art therapists
- Cancer rehabilitation (onco-physiatry)
- Care coordinators
- Genetic counseling (cancer geneticist)
- Health educators
- Medical massage (edema, lymphedema management)
- Music therapist
- Naturopaths
- Nutritionists
- Oncology nurses
- Social workers
- Speech and language pathology
We can also help with finances, food, transportation, and other challenges for eligible patients through our patient assistance fund.
See the full list of supportive care services.
Note: Some services are provided by local partners and vary based on location. Please contact your clinic for more information.
Getting a second opinion can help you feel more confident in your diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’ve already been diagnosed somewhere else, we’re here to help you take the next step. Call 855-XCANCER, 855-922-6237 - our care coordinators will match you with the right cancer specialist and help schedule your visit. They can also work with your current physician to collect your medical records and test results.
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of each person we serve. A crucial part of fulfilling this mission is our financial assistance program.
This program offers free or discounted services for those who cannot afford care, are underinsured, or have no insurance at all. We provide financial assistance in cases where annual family income is between zero and 400 percent of the federal poverty level, helping ensure that financial constraints aren’t a barrier to receiving medically necessary care.
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