Follow-up of treated osteosarcoma patient.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the value of post-treatment follow-up in osteosarcoma patients.


METHODS
Data were collected through a clinical record, with socio-demographic and clinical data, and information relating to the medical appointment. Descriptive analysis of the data was carried out. The Chi-squared test was used to associate the independent variables with attendance at scheduled follow-up appointments.


RESULTS
We found a recurrence in 59.6% of cases, of which 58% were lung related; 44% presented clinical complaints and arrived on the scheduled date of the appointment. There was no statistically significant association between the demographic characteristics and early attendance of follow-up visits. 81.3% of the cases who came for the appointment earlier than originally scheduled presented complaints compared to those who did not (p=0.005). Of the cases who presented recurrence, 12.9% attended an appointment late and those who did not present recurrence, 47.6% were late for the appointment (p=0.006).


CONCLUSIONS
It is seen that the patients who came for an earlier appointment presented more complaints and were associated with the positive result of the exams carried out. The patients who had recurrence and came for an earlier appointment did not present a statistically significant difference in recurrence-free survival. It was observed that distance was not a predominant factor in late attendance at appointments. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective Study.
Department of Pediatric Oncology, Hospital de Câncer de Barretos - Barretos, SP, Brazil.
Gisele Eiras
GE
Martins
Researcher Support Center, Hospital de Câncer de Barretos - Barretos, SP, Brazil.
Stela Verzinhasse
SV
Perez
Bone neoplasms; Osteosarcoma; Recurrence