As Sarcoma Awareness Month brings attention to one of the rarest and most complex forms of cancer, Duke Orthopaedics proudly highlights the work of Dr. Julia Visgauss, MD, assistant professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and chief of the Orthopaedic Oncology Division. A nationally recognized leader in sarcoma care, Dr. Visgauss blends deep clinical expertise with a passion for innovation and patient-centered care.
A Calling Inspired by Mentors—and Patients
Dr. Visgauss’s journey into sarcoma care started with a fascination for the pathophysiology of bone, nurtured by exceptional mentors throughout her training. But it’s her patients who remain her greatest source of inspiration.
“It is truly my patients who drive me to keep innovating—both clinically and scientifically,” she shares.
Pushing Boundaries at the Duke Sarcoma Center
Under Dr. Visgauss’s leadership, the Duke Sarcoma Center has become a hub for cutting-edge, multidisciplinary care. From pioneering custom 3D-printed implants to advancing minimally invasive interventional techniques, the team is committed to improving both survival outcomes and quality of life for patients.
“We care for people with some of the rarest and most complex conditions,” she says. “Our strength lies in our collaboration and shared commitment to excellence.”
Duke’s active participation in multi-institutional research through the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society ensures that innovation and knowledge are shared across the national sarcoma community.
A Journey That’s Rarely Linear
Dr. Visgauss emphasizes that sarcoma treatment is often a long and challenging journey—one that impacts not just life but also function.
“It’s not a linear path. Recovery can take years, and that’s why trust and support from a specialized care team is so critical.”
Collaboration at the Core
At Duke, patient care is a team effort. Every case is reviewed by a multidisciplinary team that includes surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, physical and occupational therapists, and other specialists. This ensures a comprehensive and personalized approach to care.
“We build a network around our patients and their families,” Dr. Visgauss explains. “Our goal is to deliver world-class, compassionate care that supports the whole person.
She also highlights the importance of global collaboration:
“The community of sarcoma providers and researchers is truly international, and Duke is strongly represented. We are committed to sharing knowledge, learning from one another, and working together to develop international consensus guidelines for best practices.”
As we observe Sarcoma Awareness Month, Dr. Visgauss’s work serves as a powerful reminder of how compassion, innovation, and collaboration can transform lives—and shape the future of sarcoma care.