Orthopedic Oncology

Our Orthopedic Oncology program is one of the newest programs within our department.  The program is under the direction of Ernest “Chappie” Conrad III, M.D., professor in our Department of Orthopedic Surgery and a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializing in orthopedic oncology.

The Orthopaedic Oncology Service provides comprehensive evaluation and management of pediatric and adult musculoskeletal tumors in a multi-disciplinary setting. We treat benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors, including metastatic bone disease. We collaborate with other oncologic, radiologic and surgical services to provide comprehensive care for patients with musculoskeletal tumors. Our service manages Orthopaedic Oncology referrals from both the Houston metro population (7 million) and SW Texas (15 million).

Leading research in pediatric and adult tumors. Dr. Conrad’s special research interests include the metabolic imaging of sarcomas, the clinical and biologic description of hereditary multiple exostoses and the documentation of adequate tumor surgical margins for sarcoma surgical resections.

Dr. Conrad and his orthopedic oncology team are also investigating the increase in the incidence in the of fractures secondary to malignant metastases, a study launched by the Texas Medical Center Orthopedic Trauma Service and Memorial Hermann Hospital.