Advancements in Photothermal Therapy Using Near-Infrared Light for Bone Tumors Bone tumors, particularly osteosarcoma, are common in children and adolescents, being the second most frequent cause of cancer-related mortality in this age group. Conventional treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, but these methods face challenges in managing bone tumors and promoting bone regeneration. Photothermal therapy (PTT) has gained attention due to its minimal invasiveness and high selectivity. However, its clinical application is limited by challenges such as tumor specificity and the need for combination therapies. This review discusses recent strategies to overcome these limitations, focusing on target strategies, combined therapies with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and chemodynamic therapies, and bifunctional scaffolds for PTT and bone regeneration. It also explores the pros and cons of these methods and highlights current research directions. PTT uses photothermal agents (PTAs) that convert light energy into heat, killing tumor cells while sparing normal tissues. PTAs include organic dyes, nanoparticles, and inorganic materials. PTT is non-invasive and effective, but its application in bone tumors is limited by factors such as light penetration and hypoxic environments. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have enabled the development of multifunctional nanomaterials that can enhance PTT efficacy. PTT combined with other therapies, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, shows promise in improving treatment outcomes. The review also discusses the role of nanocarriers in targeted drug delivery and the potential of PTT in modulating the tumor microenvironment. Overall, PTT offers a promising approach for bone tumor treatment, with ongoing research aimed at improving its efficacy and safety.Advancements in Photothermal Therapy Using Near-Infrared Light for Bone Tumors Bone tumors, particularly osteosarcoma, are common in children and adolescents, being the second most frequent cause of cancer-related mortality in this age group. Conventional treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, but these methods face challenges in managing bone tumors and promoting bone regeneration. Photothermal therapy (PTT) has gained attention due to its minimal invasiveness and high selectivity. However, its clinical application is limited by challenges such as tumor specificity and the need for combination therapies. This review discusses recent strategies to overcome these limitations, focusing on target strategies, combined therapies with immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and chemodynamic therapies, and bifunctional scaffolds for PTT and bone regeneration. It also explores the pros and cons of these methods and highlights current research directions. PTT uses photothermal agents (PTAs) that convert light energy into heat, killing tumor cells while sparing normal tissues. PTAs include organic dyes, nanoparticles, and inorganic materials. PTT is non-invasive and effective, but its application in bone tumors is limited by factors such as light penetration and hypoxic environments. Recent advancements in nanotechnology have enabled the development of multifunctional nanomaterials that can enhance PTT efficacy. PTT combined with other therapies, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, shows promise in improving treatment outcomes. The review also discusses the role of nanocarriers in targeted drug delivery and the potential of PTT in modulating the tumor microenvironment. Overall, PTT offers a promising approach for bone tumor treatment, with ongoing research aimed at improving its efficacy and safety.