Multidisciplinary team (MDT) for sarcomas

Sarcomas are rare cancers, so 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 specialises in sarcomas.
• Oncologist – a doctor who specialises in cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy.
• Specialist nurse – a nurse who gives information and support about any aspect of your illness or treatment.
• Radiologist – a doctor who specialises in reading scans and x-rays.
• Pathologist – a doctor who specialises in looking at cells under a microscope and diagnosing the cell type.

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

• Dietitian – someone who advises you on how to get all the nutrients your body needs.
• Physiotherapist – someone who can help if you have problems moving around.
• Plastic surgeon – a surgeon who is skilled in rebuilding tissue.
• Occupational therapist – someone who makes sure you are safe and comfortable at home. For example, they can suggest and arrange minor changes to the home.
• Psychologist or counsellor – someone who can help you cope with any emotional difficulties.