(P 495) UNDERSTANDING THE EXPERIENCES OF PATIENTS RETURNING TO ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING AND EXERCISE FOLLOWING LIMB SPARING SURGERY FOR BONE OR SOFT TISSUE SARCOMA AROUND THE KNEE.

Objective: A large proportion of sarcomas occur in the extremities, particularly around the knee joint, presenting numerous physical limitations. There is limited qualitative literature providing insight into patients’ lives. This sub-study is part of a larger study, the Stanmore Tumour Outcomes Project, measuring survivorship and rehabilitation outcomes in The London Sarcoma Service.

Objective: The objective of this study is to understand the experiences and potential barriers of returning to daily activities and exercise following treatment for knee sarcoma, to pre-operatively guide patient expectations and support rehabilitation.

Methods:

Methods: In phase one, a narrative literature review was undertaken on sarcoma survivors, with a focus on knee tumours. This informed phase two, a qualitative study of eight patients at least one-year post limb salvage surgery of the knee. Ethical approval was granted from a National Ethics Committee in the UK (reference 21/WA/0027).

Results:

Results: Eight patients with around knee sarcoma were included in the study. Patients received either a distal femoral replacement, proximal tibial replacement or a tibia resection with fibula allograft. Four themes emerged, Navigating activities of daily living, Barriers to exercise, The need for mental health support and Lack of local knowledge. Patients demonstrated resilience returning to life after treatment and expressed both positive and negative aspects of recovery.

Conclusion:

Conclusion: Most patients following limb sparing surgery continue to experience not only physical limitations but also long-term effects on mental health. Improved individualised rehabilitation and comprehensive follow up perhaps based on biopsychosocial models, may help to mitigate some of the difficulties faced.