Dr Tahir Mehmood Orthopaedic Oncology and Arthroplasty Clinic

08/08/2026

Scapulectomy with humerus suspension

07/08/2026

Rare Case Highlight: Oncological Resection & Functional Reconstruction in Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma (ASPS)
A 19-year-old female presented with a mass involving the distal anteromedial thigh. Histopathology confirmed Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma (ASPS)—a rare, slow-growing, but aggressive soft tissue malignancy with a high propensity for vascular invasion and late metastases.
Surgical Approach & Management:
* Wide Local Excision: Achieved negative surgical margins with en-bloc resection of the tumor along with the overlying skin ellipse to ensure adequate oncological safety.
* Functional Reconstruction: To restore knee extension function lost following quadriceps/anterior compartment clearance, an anterior transfer of the hamstring tendons was performed.
Soft tissue sarcomas in young patients present a unique challenge: balancing aggressive oncological resection with limb-salvage strategies that preserve mobility and long-term quality of life. Soft tissue coverage and dynamic tendon transfers remain critical components of reconstruction in complex orthopaedic oncology cases.
Always a rewarding outcome when clear margins and functional preservation align.

07/08/2026

Challenging Musculoskeletal Oncology Case | Scapulectomy with Hanging Shoulder Reconstruction

I recently had the opportunity to operate on a 55-year-old female with a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) involving the right scapular region.

Given the extent of the disease, achieving adequate oncological resection while preserving the upper limb presented a significant surgical challenge. The patient underwent scapulectomy with a hanging shoulder, allowing limb preservation following removal of the involved scapula and tumor.

Cases such as this highlight the importance of meticulous preoperative planning, understanding of complex shoulder-girdle anatomy, careful neurovascular preservation where oncologically appropriate, and a multidisciplinary approach to musculoskeletal oncology.

The operative images demonstrate different stages of the procedure, including exposure, tumor resection, and the postoperative appearance.

For me, the central principle in managing such challenging tumors remains clear: achieve appropriate oncological clearance while preserving as much function and quality of life as safely possible.

Grateful to the entire surgical, anesthesia, nursing, pathology, and oncology teams involved in the patient's care.

Clinical images shared for professional/educational discussion with appropriate patient privacy and consent considerations.

05/08/2026

https://drtahirmehmoodkhattakorthoonco.com/
My website

Dr. Tahir Mehmood Khattak — FCPS Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in Trauma, Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty) and Orthopaedic Oncology. Fellowship trained, University Malaya Medical Centre.

15/07/2026

Left posterolateral knee recurrent fungating sarcoma who underwent wide local excision and antegrade sural flap and SSG

01/07/2026

Primary complex hip..acetabular loss with avn hip..done reverse hybrid with cage

20/06/2026

With the permission of Patient and attendant

A Moment That Will Stay With Me Forever

This photograph was taken in the operating theatre moments before surgery.

The patient is a 17-year-old young woman with recurrent synovial sarcoma involving the tarsal and metatarsal bones of her foot. Despite previous treatment efforts, the disease recurred and progressed, ultimately leaving a below-knee amputation as the most appropriate option for local disease control.

As healthcare professionals, we often discuss imaging, pathology reports, surgical plans, and rehabilitation protocols. Yet moments like this remind us that behind every diagnosis is a person whose life is being profoundly affected.

Before surgery, she wrote her thoughts and emotions directly on her leg. Her words reflected fear, uncertainty, frustration, and the immense burden of facing a life-altering operation at only 17 years of age. Reading them was a powerful reminder that cancer affects far more than the body.

This case also highlights a critical message: sarcoma should never be considered a routine musculoskeletal problem. Early recognition, timely referral, and prompt treatment are essential. Delays in diagnosis or definitive management can allow the disease to progress to a point where limb-salvage options are no longer possible, and amputation becomes necessary.

Many patients with sarcoma initially present with symptoms that may appear benign. Raising awareness among healthcare professionals and the public is vital because early intervention can make the difference between limb preservation and limb loss, and in some cases, between life and death.

As rehabilitation professionals, our role extends beyond physical recovery. We support patients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives, helping them rebuild confidence, function, and hope.

To this courageous young woman: your strength in the face of adversity is remarkable. Thank you for reminding all of us why compassionate, patient-centered care matters.

Early diagnosis saves limbs. Timely treatment saves lives. Compassion helps patients rebuild both.

20/06/2026

30/04/2026

Bone and soft tissue tumors

30/04/2026

Bone and soft tissue tumours