Psychological impact of spine sarcoma on wellbeing

Background: Spine sarcomas are rare but debilitating cancers requiring extensive treatment with high morbidity. While physical outcomes are well studied, the psychological impact and support needs of patients remain poorly understood.

Method: Sixteen adult patients diagnosed or treated for spinal sarcoma at Oxford University Hospitals completed semi-structured qualitative interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: Patients frequently experienced significant delays to diagnosis, often enduring severe, persistent pain and having requests for further diagnostic tests declined by healthcare providers. After diagnosis, many underwent extensive and invasive treatment, with prolonged hospital stays and reliance on considerable caregiving support after discharge. Emotional challenges were common, including anger, anxiety and social withdrawal, often compounded by chronic pain and reduced mobility. Patients also described unmet rehabilitative care needs, including fragmented aftercare and limited psychological provision.

Conclusions: Findings underscore the urgent need for earlier diagnosis, enhanced clinical training, integrated psychosocial support, and coordinated long-term survivorship care in spinal sarcoma.