[The role of psycho-oncology in orthopedic tumor centers].

INTRODUCTION

Psychosocial screening has not been implemented into diagnosis-related guidelines for the treatment of orthopedic tumor patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the significance of psycho-oncology in orthopedic institutions specialized in musculoskeletal tumors as well as the opinion and clinical experience of the treating physicians.

METHODS

In total 60 orthopedic institutions were recruited. Data were assessed and analyzed by a newly developed, standardized questionnaire. To detect specific, demographic differences results were additionally analyzed according to gender, age and professional experience.

RESULTS

A total of 118 physicians from 47 institutions participated. Significant differences between professional experience groups were obtained regarding the wish for psychosocial treatment in cases of own illness (p=0.032) and the difficulty of addressing patient feelings (p=0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of orthopedic physicians deemed psycho-oncology important. To ensure a holistic approach to the treatment of orthopedic tumor patients, psycho-oncological aspects should be implemented in diagnosis-related guidelines.