Chordoma affects very important and complex parts of the body such as the brainstem, spinal cord and important nerves and arteries. Treatment is therefore complicated and requires very specialised care provided by multiple types of doctors. Your child’s care will be managed by a team of experts from a wide range of healthcare professions known as a multidisciplinary team (MDT).

The MDT may include:

  • paediatric oncologist (cancer specialist)
  • a clinical oncologist (radiotherapy and chemotherapy specialist)
  • paediatric surgeon
  • a pathologist
  • a radiologist
  • a nurse specialist
  • a physiotherapist
  • a pharmacist
  • a dietitian

The members of the MDT work together to ensure your child gets the best care. The MDT will meet regularly to discuss and plan your child’s care. You may also have access to other health or social care professionals, such as counsellors and nurse specialists, who can provide practical and emotional support during this difficult time. 

Cancer nurse specialists are often the main point of contact and provide a vital link between the medical team and families. Nurse specialists can provide support to children with chordoma while at home or in the hospital and help explain information about treatments and treatment decisions.

Words in bold are explained in a glossary.

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