[Complications of malignant tumors--pathological fractures].

Advances in the treatment of tumors have improved the life expectancy of cancer patients appreciably. As a consequence the incidence of bone metastases has also increased. Surgical interventions must achieve a maximal palliative effect with minimal morbidity and mortality. Major objectives are reduction of pain while preserving stability and function. Surgical treatment of primary and secondary bone tumors is complicated and thus also burdened with complications. However, interdisciplinary therapy comprising surgical resection and stabilization, radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy improves life expectancy and the quality of life of the cancer patient.