Ha Thi Hue, a 27-year-old Muong ethnic woman from Thanh Hoa, was admitted to K Hospital with severe pain and an inability to move her left leg. Examinations confirmed she had bone cancer in the lower one-third of her left femur.

Master of Science Doctor Hoang Le Minh, Deputy Head of the Department of Orthopedic and Soft Tissue Surgery, stated that the tumor had grown significantly because the condition had been present for a long time without treatment. The tumor's complex location was close to vital nerves in the thigh and popliteal region. Additionally, the patient's knee joint was rigidly contracted at a 90-degree angle, with severe muscle retraction in the posterior thigh.

Doctors operate to treat bone cancer in the patient. Photo: Thai Ha

Following a consultation, doctors agreed on a plan to resect the femoral bone segment containing the tumor and replace it with a hinged knee joint. The surgery's objective was to remove the lesion while preserving the limb. Doctor Minh shared, "During the surgery, we had to simultaneously straighten the patient's knee, manage the tumor, and protect crucial nerves."

Post-surgery, the team continued to apply a splint to help the patient's leg gradually straighten, combined with rehabilitation. After more than one week, Hue's left leg was straight, and she began movement exercises.

Before hospitalization, Hue's difficult financial circumstances prevented her from receiving timely treatment. She is a mother of two young children: the elder born in 2019 and the youngest just turned one year old. Her greatest concern was not only the disease but also the risk of losing her ability to walk and care for her children.

K Hospital's Social Work Department shared Hue's story. Numerous organizations, individuals, and benefactors collectively contributed 220 million VND. This funding provided the family with additional resources to cover treatment costs and the crucial surgery.

Currently, Hue's health is stable; she can stand independently and take her first steps after a long period of abnormal mobility. She continues to undergo monitoring, rehabilitation, and multi-modal chemotherapy.

Doctor Minh advised that early disease detection is crucial for bone cancer treatment and limb preservation. Individuals experiencing prolonged bone pain, swelling, or unusual movement limitations should seek examination at a specialized medical facility, avoiding self-treatment or delayed consultation.

Le Nga