Multidisciplinary team (MDT) for sarcomas

Because soft tissue sarcoma is a rare cancer, you should always be referred for treatment at a specialist sarcoma unit. A team of specialist doctors and other professionals will work together to manage your treatment. This is called a multidisciplinary team (MDT).

It will include the following professionals:

• Surgeon – a doctor who does operations (surgery) and specialises in sarcoma.
• Oncologist – a doctor who treats people who have cancer.
• Clinical nurse specialist (CNS) – a nurse who gives information about cancer, and support during treatment.
• Radiologist – a doctor who looks at scans and x-rays to diagnose problems.
• Pathologist – a doctor who looks at cells or body tissue under a microscope to diagnose cancer.

The MDT may also include healthcare professionals, such as the following:

• Dietitian – someone who gives information and advice about food and food supplements.
• Physiotherapist – someone who gives advice about exercise and mobility.
• Plastic surgeon – a doctor who does operations (surgery) to repair or reconstruct tissue and skin.
• Occupational therapist – someone who gives information, support and aids to help people with tasks such as washing and dressing.
• Psychologist or counsellor – someone who gives advice about managing feelings and behaviours.