American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

In which diagnosis is an amputation not typically necessary?

1. Osteosarcoma

2. Ewing's sarcoma

3. Osteochondroma

4. Metastatic bone disease

The correct answer is: Osteochondroma

Osteochondroma involves the presence of benign bone lesions that typically occur on the surface of long bones. These tumors are usually asymptomatic and are characterized by their slow growth. In most cases, they do not threaten the limb or the overall health of the patient and can often be monitored rather than surgically removed unless they cause mechanical problems or pain. In contrast, the other conditions listed, such as osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma, are malignant bone tumors that often require more aggressive treatment, including amputation, especially if the tumor is large or has spread extensively. Similarly, metastatic bone disease, which involves the spread of cancer from other parts of the body to the bones, can lead to severe compromise of the affected limb, warranting amputation in certain cases to relieve pain or prevent fractures. Therefore, osteochondroma stands out as a condition where amputation is typically not necessary due to its benign nature and the availability of less invasive management options.