Sarcoma is a rare, aggressive malignant disease affecting bone and soft tissue. Due to the variety of subtypes and the complexity of diagnosis, treatment of sarcoma requires highly qualified doctors and an appropriate level of medical centre. To help patients navigate the variety of offers and choose the doctor who will be their reliable ally in the fight against the disease, MediGlobus experts have prepared a rating of the best oncologists for sarcoma treatment, taking into account their professional achievements and experience in the application of modern methods and technologies.
Sarcoma is a rare disease that develops in the bones or soft tissues of the body, such as muscle, adipose tissue, blood vessels and connective tissues. There are more than 70 subtypes of sarcoma, with osteosarcoma (affects bone), liposarcoma (fatty tissue), and rhabdomyosarcoma (muscle) being the most common. This type of cancer occurs in people of all ages, but sarcomas are more commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), sarcomas account for about 1% of all malignant tumours in adults and up to 15% in children. About 60% of tumours are localised in the extremities, 30% in the abdomen and trunk, and 10% in the head and neck. Because of the rarity and diversity of the subtypes, the treatment of sarcomas requires a specialised approach by multidisciplinary oncology teams.
Prof Merdan Fayda – a leading expert in radiotherapy for sarcomas at Liv Hospital
Prof. Merdan Fayda is one of the most respected experts in radiation oncology with over 25 years of medical experience. He is the Head of Radiation Oncology at Liv Hospital Ulus and also teaches at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of İstinye.
Dr Fayda graduated from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine in 1999, after which he continued his training in radiation oncology. He received his PhD degree from Istanbul University in 2004. In 2010-2011, he did his fellowship training at the University of North Carolina, USA, specialising in stereotactic radiation therapy and thoracic oncology.
Since 2015, Dr Fayda has been a leading specialist in radiation oncology at Liv Ulus Clinic, as well as a consulting physician at the Centre for Radiation Medicine at Liv Clinic in Tbilisi, Georgia. He was promoted to Associate Professor at Istinye University in 2016, and to Professor since 2017.
To treat cancer, Dr Fayda uses a variety of state-of-the-art radiation therapies – Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT), Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), 4D Radiation Therapy, 3D Brachytherapy – that effectively destroy tumours with minimal impact on healthy tissue. He is proficient in innovative technologies such as CyberKnife, TrueBeam STx, Versa HD, Tomotherapy and Intrabeam.
Dr Fayda is actively involved in the world’s leading oncology organisations such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the European Society for Radiation Oncology (ESTRO) and the Turkish Association of Radiation Oncology (TROD). His work and research focus on improving radiotherapy techniques for the treatment of sarcomas and other cancers, as well as introducing new technologies to improve patient prognosis.
Why do patients choose Prof Fayda?
- 25+ years of experience in radiation oncology
- Working at the leading hospital in Turkey – Liv Hospital Ulus
- Application of innovative methods of radiation therapy
- Membership in world oncological associations
- Internship in the USA
- Personalised approach to each patient
Cost of oncologist consultation in Turkey – from $115
Treatment of sarcoma in Liv clinics
Liv clinics take a comprehensive approach to the treatment of oncological diseases. The therapy plan is developed individually, taking into account the molecular characteristics of the tumour, the stage of the disease and the patient’s general condition. Key decisions are made by an interdisciplinary consilium consisting of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, pathologists and others. Different departments cooperate closely to provide patients with the most effective treatment possible, combining different approaches and monitoring outcomes at every stage of therapy.
Sarcoma is treated with the use of modern targeted therapy, immunotherapy and chemotherapy, as well as high-precision radiotherapy (IMRT, SBRT, proton therapy), destroying the tumour with minimal damage to healthy tissues.
Liv Hospital
If necessary, surgical removal of tumours is performed, which is especially important in localised forms of sarcomas. In case of widespread or recurrent tumours, a combined approach is used: drugs, radiation therapy and surgical treatment.
Prof Ofer Merimsky is a well-known Israeli oncologist
Prof. Ofer Merimsky is one of the leading specialists in the treatment of bone and soft tissue sarcomas and heads the department at Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Medical Centre. He has more than 40 years of medical experience and is a recognised expert in the comprehensive treatment of cancer. His clinical experience includes work with rare and aggressive tumours including osteosarcoma, liposarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, angiosarcoma, fibrosarcoma and other types of sarcomas.
Dr Merimsky graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 1983. Thereafter, he did his military service in the medical units of the Israel Defence Forces, serving as a battalion and division doctor.
He subsequently specialised in oncology and radiotherapy, training in the world’s leading clinics. He received advanced training in radiation therapy and brachytherapy at the NYH Medical Centre (New York, USA), and advanced training in the complex treatment of sarcomas at the Gustave Roussy Institute (Paris, France).
In 2002, he became the head of the Department of Skeletal and Soft Tissue Tumour Treatment at Ichilov and was promoted to the rank of Professor in 2003. Since 2018, he has served as deputy head of the oncology department at the medical centre.
The choice of treatment tactics is based on the results of an interdisciplinary consilium of doctors, including oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, pathologists and others. Depending on the type and stage of sarcoma, professor Merimsky applies various treatment methods:
- Modern drugs – chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
- Radiation therapy – high precision radiation techniques including IMRT, SBRT, proton therapy and brachytherapy.
Prof. Merimsky is the author of more than 200 scientific publications in international medical journals and an active participant in clinical trials. He is a member of leading professional societies:
- Israeli Association of Clinical Oncology and Radiation Therapy (ISCORT) – 2 terms as secretary, then 4 years as head of the association.
- American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
- European Society of Clinical Oncology (ESMO) – member of the steering group for the treatment of sarcomas.
- Ethical Committee of the Ichilov Medical Centre – vice-chairman.
- Board of Trustees of the Israel Cancer Association.
Why do patients choose Professor Merimsky?
- 40+ years of experience in oncology, specialising in complex cases.
- Internship in leading medical centres in Europe and the USA.
- Interdisciplinary approach and personalised treatment regimens.
- Application of advanced targeted therapies, immunotherapy and radiation therapy.
- A recognised expert in Israel and abroad, a leading researcher in the treatment of sarcomas.
The cost of a consultation with an oncologist in clinics in Israel – from $650
Treatment of sarcoma at Ichilov Clinic
At Ichilov Clinic, cancer treatment is carried out using the latest diagnostic and therapeutic methods. In the first stage, the patient undergoes a comprehensive examination using the latest generation of high-precision equipment. All the results are discussed at a consilium of specialists, which helps to develop the most effective treatment tactics. The diagnostic process takes 3-4 working days.
The most effective methods with proven efficacy are used in the treatment of sarcoma. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are combined depending on the type and stage of the disease. Surgery is performed while preserving the maximum function of the organ or limb, and chemotherapy is administered either as the main method or in addition to surgery or radiotherapy.
Ichilov Medical Centre
For radiotherapy, advanced techniques such as IMRT, 3D conformal radiotherapy and brachytherapy are used to precisely target radiation to the tumour, minimising damage to healthy tissue.
In addition, innovative drugs are being used to treat sarcomas. For example, Tazemetostat (Tazverik) is used for epithelioid sarcoma, which has shown efficacy in 26% of cases in the treatment of locally advanced or metastasising tumours. For Kaposi sarcoma, Pomalidomide (Pomalyst) is used, which stimulates the immune system and helps to achieve partial or complete remission in 71% of cases.
Is sarcoma curable?
The prognosis for patients with sarcomas depends on the type of tumour, the extent of the disease and its location. Treatment in foreign clinics, where experienced specialists work and modern techniques and protocols are applied, allows for significant improvements and good results. Modern approaches to therapy, such as organ-preserving surgeries, radiotherapy, targeting therapy and immunotherapy, help to increase survival and improve the quality of life of patients even at advanced stages of the disease.
Soft tissue sarcoma survival:
- 81% for localised cancer
- 56% for adjacent tissue involvement
- 15% for distant metastases
Bone sarcoma survival:
- 76% for localised cancer
- 64% for adjacent tissue involvement
- 24% for distant metastases.
(According to the American Cancer Society)
Read: Is liposarcoma curable?
Dr Mikel San Julián Aranguren – a recognised expert in the treatment of bone sarcomas
Dr Mikel San Julián Aranguren is an experienced specialist in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology. He is particularly renowned for his in-depth knowledge of the treatment of bone sarcomas. He works at the Clinical University of Navarra, one of the most advanced medical institutions in Spain.
Dr Aranguren began his journey in medicine by graduating from the University of Navarra in 1988 and then defending his thesis in 1994. To deepen his knowledge and skills, he trained at leading medical institutions such as the Karolinska Institute in Sweden (1997), Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre in New York (2000) and Leiden University Hospital in the Netherlands (2018-2019).
Dr Aranguren uses innovative and highly effective techniques in treating of bone tumours. For example, he uses organ-preserving surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and the latest approaches in radiotherapy and immunotherapy to treat Ewing’s sarcoma and osteosarcoma.
He takes an individualised approach to each patient, which allows him to choose the optimal treatment with minimal health risks. In addition, the doctor is actively involved in research on osteosarcoma metastasis in children and radiotherapy-induced fibrosis.
Mikel San Julián Aranguren is an active member of several international medical organisations, including the European Musculoskeletal Tumour Society (EMSOS), where he was a board member from 2002 to 2012. He is also a founder of the Spanish Association of Tissue Banks and a member of the European Association for Bone Tissue Transplantation (EAMST).
His scientific publications, lectures and participation in international conferences confirm the high level of his professional reputation. In his career, he has spoken more than 300 times in scientific forums, which also emphasises his significant contribution to the development of medicine.
Why do patients choose Dr Aranguren?
- 30+ years of experience in oncology with specialisation in the treatment of bone sarcoma in children.
- Trained in Sweden, the USA and the Netherlands.
- Utilising the latest medical advances to treat complex musculoskeletal diseases.
- Active participation in research, which allows the application of the newest approaches in the treatment of sarcomas.
- The doctor always takes into account the unique needs of each patient, offering personalised treatments.
A consultation with an oncologist in Spain costs from €400
How are bone sarcomas treated at the Navarra Clinic?
‘The clinic has extensive experience in treating bone sarcomas with limb preservation. The survival rate is around 70% and limb preservation is over 90%’ – Dr Mikel San Julián Aranguren, sarcoma specialist.
At the Navarra Clinic, bone sarcomas are treated using the most modern and effective methods, which significantly improve patients’ prognosis and quality of life. Each patient is treated by a multidisciplinary team of radiologists, pathologists, oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists.
Navarra University Hospital
To treat osteosarcoma, the most common bone cancer among children and adolescents, the clinic uses chemotherapy, including intra-arterial injection of drugs to more effectively target the tumour, and surgery to completely remove the neoplasm. Navarra’s doctors have developed and use epiphysiolysis before surgery, a technique that can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Ewing’s sarcoma is the second most common bone sarcoma in children and adolescents. Oncologists use the latest chemotherapy drugs, surgery, and, in some cases, radiotherapy for effective treatment. The Navarra Clinic has significantly improved the results of therapy for this disease thanks to the use of preoperative chemotherapy, which in 80% of cases allows for almost complete necrosis of the tumour, greatly simplifying its subsequent removal.
Professor Wolfgang Schröder is an internationally recognised oncology surgeon
Prof. Wolfgang Schröder is an outstanding German surgeon and specialist in visceral and oncological surgery. He heads the Department of Visceral Surgery at the Centre for Comprehensive Oncology Cologne (CIO), which has been internationally certified for its high standards of cancer treatment. Professor Schröder specialises in the treatment of diseases of the oesophagus, stomach and other organs of the digestive system, as well as dealing with various types of tumours, including sarcomas.
Dr Schröder is fluent in both traditional surgical methods and modern minimally invasive surgery techniques. The use of the latest approaches helps reduce patient recovery time and minimise risks. During operations, the doctor always strives to preserve the organ and its functionality.
Wolfgang Schröder began his medical career in 1983 at Heinrich Heine University in Düsseldorf. Afterwards, he continued his studies at the Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn and completed an internship in pathology at the Royal Melbourne Hospital in Australia. He completed his residency at leading clinics in Munich, and in 1996, he began working as a senior physician at the University Hospital of Cologne. In 2003, he became head of the Department of Surgery.
Dr Schröder holds a habilitated professorship and is active in academic and surgical education, teaching students and young specialists.
Professor Schröder is a member of numerous international and national professional organisations, including the German Society for Surgery (DGCH), the Professional Association of German Surgeons (BDC e.V.), the German Society for General and Visceral Surgery (DGAV), the American College of Surgeons (FACS), the European Board of Surgery (FEBS), and the European Surgery Association (ESA).
Dr Schröder’s professional achievements in surgery have been recognised internationally. He has been praised for his knowledge, experience, and contribution to the development of medical practice, which confirms his high status and respect among colleagues worldwide.
Why do patients choose Dr Wolfgang Schröder?
- More than 30 years of practice in the field of surgery.
- Professor Schröderdevelops treatment plans for each patient, taking into account all the nuances of the disease.
- The clinic where he works is equipped with the latest technology, which enables effective treatment of cancer at various stages.
- Professor Schröder has established himself as an expert in general and oncological surgery on a global level.
- He actively participates in the training of new generations of surgeons and continues scientific research, remaining at the forefront of medical advances.
The cost of a consultation with an oncologist in Germany – from €500
Cancer treatment at the University Hospital of Cologne
Oncological diseases are treated using the most modern methods and technologies. The clinic actively uses innovative approaches such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy and advanced chemotherapy, which are clinically tested and made available to patients as soon as possible.
The Centre for Integrated Oncology Cologne-Bonn (CIO), which has been in operation for more than 15 years, has 30 specialised departments and institutes. It offers patients comprehensive and individualised treatment that meets the highest international standards. The Centre is certified by the German Cancer Society.
The University Hospital of Cologne has an International Department for foreign patients, which solves all organisational issues, such as visa processing, translation of medical documents, accommodation of patients in comfortable wards, hotel booking, and other services.
Köln University Hospital
Professor Sung Wook Seo – an outstanding orthopaedic surgeon and sarcoma specialist
Dr. Sung Wook Seo is one of South Korea’s leading specialists in orthopaedic oncology. He heads the Rare Tumour Centre at Samsung Medical Centre and is actively developing surgical approaches to the treatment of various types of sarcomas. Dr. Seo also chairs the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the Institute of Biomedical Artificial Intelligence at Sungkyunkwan University.
Dr Seo has over 25 years of experience in medicine and has earned a reputation as an attentive and highly skilled doctor who is sought after by patients from all over the world.
Dr Seo received his education at Seoul National University, where he completed all stages of training, from internship to doctoral studies. He completed a clinical internship in the United States at Columbia University and has since actively combined scientific activity with practice.
In the treatment of sarcoma, he uses modern technologies: organ-preserving surgery, high-precision radiation therapy methods, computer modelling, reconstructive interventions, etc.
He is an active member of national and international medical associations:
- Korean Orthopaedic Association
- Korean Society for the Study of Musculoskeletal Tumours
- International Society for Limb Salvage (ISOLS)
- Asia-Pacific Society for the Study of Musculoskeletal Tumours
- Korean Society for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine
Why do patients choose Dr. Sung Wook Seo?
- Over 25 years of medical experience, highly experienced in treating sarcomas and other tumours of the musculoskeletal system.
- One of South Korea’s leading orthopaedic surgeons, specialising in rare and complex forms of cancer.
- Uses modern treatment methods, including organ-preserving surgery, reconstructive surgery, and high-precision technologies.
- Heads the Rare Tumour Centre and the Institute of Biomedical Artificial Intelligence at Samsung Medical Centre, one of the best clinics in Asia.
- An active member of international professional communities: ISOLS, the Asia-Pacific Skeletal Tumour Society, and others.
The cost of a consultation with the doctor in South Korea starts at $80.
Sarcoma treatment at Samsung Medical Centre
Cancer treatment at Samsung Medical Centre is based on the integration of the latest medical technologies, an individualised approach and the work of a multidisciplinary team.
Advanced diagnostic and therapeutic methods are used here, including molecular genetic analysis of tumours, targeted and immune therapy, robotic surgery, proton and stereotactic radiotherapy.
All treatment decisions are made by a council of specialists from various fields, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, chemotherapists, and others, which allows for the development of the most effective and personalised strategy.
Samsung Medical Center
The clinic is particularly strong in the treatment of complex and rare tumours, including bone and soft tissue sarcomas, spinal tumours, and others. The orthopaedic oncology department, which includes Dr Sung Wook Seo, specialises in organ-preserving surgery for malignant bone tumours. Doctors at Samsung Clinic perform endoprosthetics, reconstructive interventions, and comprehensive rehabilitation.
For foreign patients, Samsung has an international department that provides services at all stages, from remote consultation to discharge. Personal coordinators assist with translation, logistics, and paperwork. Patients are accommodated in modern, comfortable rooms, receive balanced meals, and are provided with psychological and social support. All this makes treatment at the clinic not only effective but also as convenient as possible.
Professor Robert Lischke is an outstanding surgeon and transplant surgeon
Prof. Robert Lischke is one of the leading surgeons in the Czech Republic, specialising in thoracic surgery, transplantology and oncological surgery. He heads the III Surgical Clinic of the 1st Faculty of Medicine of Charles University and the University Hospital Motol. Over the years of his practice, Dr Lischke has helped thousands of patients with oncological and surgical diseases. One of the key areas of his work is the treatment of sarcomas of the lung, thorax and retroperitoneum.
Robert Lischke was born on 29 May 1966 in Prague. He graduated from the 1st Faculty of Medicine of Charles University and then specialised in general surgery, thoracic surgery and cancer surgery. In 2010 he was appointed head of the III Surgical Clinic of the 1st Faculty of Medicine of Charles University, succeeding the legendary Professor Pavel Pafko. In 2012, he received the title of Professor of Surgery.
Under his leadership, the Motol Clinic became a leading centre for the treatment of complex thoracic diseases, including soft tissue sarcomas.
Prof Lischke uses the most modern surgical techniques. Lischke uses state-of-the-art surgical techniques for cancer. He strives to preserve the organ as much as possible during tumour removal and prevent the recurrence of the disease. The doctor is proficient in a variety of surgical techniques and is constantly improving his skills, introducing innovative technologies into clinical practice.
Among the approaches used:
- Organ-preserving surgeries – allowing maximum functionality of the affected organs to be preserved.
- Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) – irradiation of the tumour during surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Lung transplantation – a technique used for irreversible lung damage.
- Multimodal approach – combining surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy to maximise the effect.
Professor Lischke is a member of leading medical societies. He is Chairman of the Section of Thoracic Surgery of the Czech Surgical Society, Vice Chairman of the Organ Transplantation Society of the Czech Medical Society J.E. Purkinje, member of the Scientific Council of the 1st Faculty of Medicine of Charles University and member of the Accreditation Commission of the Czech Ministry of Health. The professor has also written numerous scientific papers on cancer surgery and transplantology published in international journals.
Why do patients choose Dr Robert Lischke?
- More than 30 years of medical experience, thousands of successfully performed operations.
- Professor Lischke is skilled in modern surgical techniques.
- The doctor develops treatments individually for each patient with a multidisciplinary team.
- The Motol Clinic, where Dr Lischke works, is among the leading medical institutions in Europe.
The cost of a consultation with a specialist in the Czech Republic starts from €300
Treatment of sarcoma at Motol Clinic
Motol Clinic is the leading cancer treatment centre in the Czech Republic and one of the key reference centres in Europe. It has a specialised department where patients are offered a comprehensive approach to the treatment of different types of sarcomas. Special attention is paid to organ-preserving surgeries, intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT), and the application of modern protocols of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
The clinic actively cooperates with leading world experts and international organisations, such as EORTC and ERN EURACAN, which allows it to apply the latest treatment methods. The latest generation linear accelerators are used here for radiotherapy, providing maximum accuracy of irradiation with minimal impact on healthy tissues. This makes it possible to shorten the course of therapy while maintaining high efficiency.
Motol Hospital
Motol Clinic is a member of the European Organisation of Cancer Institutes (OECI), which confirms the high level of services provided. The centre conducts scientific research and develops advanced therapeutic protocols, and experienced specialists participate in the creation of national clinical guidelines. All this makes the clinic one of the best places to treat sarcomas and other complex cancers.
Summary
- Prof. Merdan Fayda is an expert in radiation oncology with over 25 years of experience. He specialises in treating sarcomas and other complex tumours using IMRT, SBRT, brachytherapy, and proton therapy. Dr. Fayda is the head of radiotherapy at Liv Hospital Ulus and is actively involved in international oncology research. Thanks to his experience and the use of the latest technology, patients receive effective and safe treatment with a personalised approach.
- Prof. Ofer Merimsky is an Israeli oncologist with more than 40 years of experience in the treatment of bone and soft tissue sarcomas. He heads a specialised department at Ichilov Medical Centre and is actively involved in the development of new therapies. At Ichilov, patients receive comprehensive diagnostics and personalised treatment. The latest radiotherapy, drug and systemic therapies and organ-preserving surgeries are used to achieve the best results in the treatment of sarcomas.
- Dr Mikel San Julián Aranguren is a leading specialist in orthopaedic oncology and bone sarcoma surgery at the Clinical University of Navarra. This is one of Spain’s leading medical centres specialising in innovative treatments for cancer. The doctor performs organ-preserving surgeries and uses the latest approaches in chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Thanks to an individual approach and interdisciplinary cooperation, sarcoma treatment at the Navarra Clinic has a high level of efficiency and preservation of patients’ quality of life.
- Prof. Wolfgang Schröder is a recognised German oncological surgeon with more than 30 years of experience. He heads the Department of Visceral Surgery at the Comprehensive Oncology Centre Cologne, which is a leader in cancer treatment. He uses the latest technologies such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy. The clinic is internationally certified and provides patients with individualised treatment at all stages of the disease.
- Prof. Sung Wook Seo is an orthopaedic oncologist specialising in the treatment of sarcomas. He heads the Rare Tumour Centre at Samsung Medical Centre. The doctor performs organ-preserving surgeries, post-operative reconstructive procedures, and uses modern technologies in radiation and drug therapy. The doctor has over 25 years of experience and is actively involved in international medical communities. Samsung Clinic is one of the best cancer centres in Asia. Treatment there is based on an individual approach, multidisciplinary consultations, and the use of the latest technologies.
- Prof. Robert Lischke is an outstanding surgeon and transplantologist who heads the III Surgical Clinic of the 1st Faculty of Medicine of Charles University and the Motol University Clinic in Prague. He is an expert in thoracic surgery, transplantology and oncosurgery and specialises in the treatment of thoracic and retroperitoneal sarcomas. Under his leadership, the Motol Clinic has become a leading centre for the treatment of complex diseases and uses the most effective methods to fight cancer.
Contact MediGlobus specialists for free assistance in organising sarcoma diagnosis and treatment in leading international clinics. Our coordinators will take care of all organisational issues, including consultations with doctors, paperwork, support and assistance at all stages of treatment and rehabilitation.
Sources:
- Sarcoma UK: What is sarcoma?
- American Cancer Society: Survival Rates for Soft Tissue Sarcoma
- American Cancer Society: Survival Rates for Osteosarcoma
- Skubitz KM, D’Adamo DR. Sarcoma. Mayo Clin Proc. 2007 Nov;82(11):1409-32. doi: 10.4065/82.11.1409. PMID: 17976362.
- Sarcoma Foundation of America: What is Sarcoma?
