A single-institutional, multidisciplinary approach to primary sarcomas involving the chest wall requiring full-thickness resections

Reconstruction of massive chest wall defect after malignant chest wall mass excision in resource limited setting, a case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Chest wall tumors, rare but impactful, constitute less than 2 % of the population and 5 % of thoracic neoplasms. Wide-margin resection is vital, often causing substantial defects necessitating reconstruction. However, in resource-limited settings like sub-Saharan Africa, access to reconstruction materials is limited. We present a successful case of managing a massive chest wall defect using flexible wire and polypropylene mesh in such a context.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 40-year-old male presented with a gradually enlarging anterolateral chest wall mass, diagnosed as low-grade synovial sarcoma. Imaging revealed involvement of the 6th to 11th ribs with compression of the diaphragm and liver. A multidisciplinary team planned wide-margin excision, chest wall reconstruction, and adjuvant chemoradiation. Using a sternal wire bridge and polypropylene mesh, the 25 cm by 15 cm defect was reconstructed, covered with a latissimus dorsi flap. The patient recovered well postoperatively, highlighting the feasibility of innovative approaches in resource-limited settings.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Defects larger than 5 cm or involving over 4 ribs require reconstruction to prevent lung herniation and respiratory issues, especially for anteriorolateral defects. Our case featured a 25 by 15 cm anteriorolateral chest wall defect, necessitating rigid reconstruction. Due to resource constraints, we utilized flexible wires and polypropylene mesh, offering a cost-effective solution for managing massive chest wall defects.

CONCLUSION

This case underscores the challenges faced in managing chest wall tumors in resource-constrained regions and emphasizes the importance of innovative solutions for achieving successful outcomes in chest wall reconstruction.

The contribution of microvascular free flaps and pedicled flaps to successful chest wall surgery

OBJECTIVE

Pedicled flaps (PFs) have historically served as the preferred option for reconstruction of large chest wall defects. More recently, the indications for microvascular-free flaps (MVFFs) have increased, particularly for defects in which PFs are inadequate or unavailable. We sought to compare oncologic and surgical outcomes between MVFFs and PFs in reconstructions of full-thickness chest wall defects.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified all patients who underwent chest wall resection at our institution from 2000 to 2022. Patients were stratified by flap reconstruction. End points were defect size, rate of complete resection, rate of local recurrence, and postoperative outcomes. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify factors associated with complications at 30 days.

RESULTS

In total, 536 patients underwent chest wall resection, of whom 133 had flap reconstruction (MVFF, n = 28; PF, n = 105). The median (interquartile range) covered defect size was 172 cm2 (100-216 cm2) for patients receiving MVFF versus 109 cm2 (75-148 cm2) for patients receiving PF (P = .004). The rate of R0 resection was high in both groups (MVFF, 93% [n = 26]; PF, 86% [n = 90]; P = .5). The rate of local recurrence was 4% in MVFF patients (n = 1) versus 12% in PF patients (n = 13, P = .3). Postoperative complications were not statistically different between groups (odds ratio for PF, 1.37; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-5.14]; P = .6). Operative time >400 minutes was associated with 30-day complications (odds ratio, 3.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-9.93; P = .033).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with MVFFs had larger defects, a high rate of complete resection, and a low rate of local recurrence. MVFFs are a valid option for chest wall reconstructions.

Full-thickness chest wall resection for malignant chest wall tumors and postoperative problems

Background

Chest wall malignant tumor (including primary and metastatic lesions) is rare, representing less than 5% of all thoracic malignancies. Local control of chest wall malignancies requires wide resection with tumor-free margins. These requirements increase the risk of thoracic cavity failure and subsequent pulmonary failure. The restoration strategy for chest wall defects comprises chest wall reconstruction and soft-tissue coverage. Various reconstruction methods have been used, but both evidence and guidelines for chest wall reconstruction remain lacking. The purposes of this study were to collate our institutional experience, evaluate the outcomes of full-thickness chest wall resection and reconstruction for patients with chest wall malignant tumor, and identify problems in current practice for chest wall reconstruction with a focus on local control, complications, pulmonary function and scoliosis.

Methods

Participants comprised 30 patients with full-thickness chest wall malignant tumor who underwent chest wall resection and reconstruction between 1997 and 2021 in Mie University Hospital. All patients underwent chest wall resection of primary, recurrent or metastatic malignant tumors. A retrospective review was conducted for 32 operations.

Results

Recurrence was observed after 5 operations. Total 5-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate was 79.3%. Diameter ≥5 cm was significantly associated with poor RFS. The postoperative complication rate was 18.8%. Flail chest was observed with resection of ≥3 ribs in anterior and lateral resections or with sternum resection without polyethylene methylmethacrylate reconstruction. Postoperative EFV1.0% did not show any significant decrease. Postoperative %VC decreased significantly with resection of ≥4 ribs or an area of >70 cm2. Postoperative scoliosis was observed in 8 of 28 patients. Posterior resection was associated with a high prevalence of scoliosis (88.9%).

Conclusion

With chest wall reconstruction, risks of pulmonary impairment, flail chest and scoliosis were significantly increased. New strategies including indications for rigid reconstruction are needed to improve the outcomes of chest wall reconstruction.

Expert consensus on resection of chest wall tumors and chest wall reconstruction

Chest wall tumors are a relatively uncommon disease in clinical practice. Most of the published studies about chest wall tumors are usually single-center retrospective studies, involving few patients. Therefore, evidences regarding clinical conclusions about chest wall tumors are lacking, and some controversial issues have still to be agreed upon. In January 2019, 73 experts in thoracic surgery, plastic surgery, science, and engineering jointly released the Chinese Expert Consensus on Chest Wall Tumor Resection and Chest Wall Reconstruction (2018 edition). After that, numerous experts put forward new perspectives on some academic issues in this version of the consensus, pointing out the necessity to further discuss the points of contention. Thus, we conducted a survey through the administration of a questionnaire among 85 experts in the world. Consensus has been reached on some major points as follows. (I) Wide excision should be performed for desmoid tumor (DT) of chest wall. After excluding the distant metastasis by multi-disciplinary team, solitary sternal plasmacytoma can be treated with extensive resection and adjuvant radiotherapy. (II) Wide excision with above 2 cm margin distance should be attempted to obtain R0 resection margin for chest wall tumor unless the tumor involves vital organs or structures, including the great vessels, heart, trachea, joints, and spine. (III) For patients with chest wall tumors undergoing unplanned excision (UE) for the first time, it is necessary to carry out wide excision as soon as possible within 1–3 months following the previous surgery. (IV) Current Tumor Node Metastasis staging criteria (American Joint Committee on Cancer) of bone tumor and soft tissue sarcoma are not suitable for chest wall sarcomas. (V) It is necessary to use rigid implants for chest wall reconstruction once the maximum diameter of the chest wall defect exceeds 5 cm in adults and adolescents. (VI) For non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) invading the chest wall, wide excision with neoadjuvant and/or adjuvant therapy are recommended for patients with stage T_3-4N_0-1M₀. As clear guidelines are lacking, these consensus statements on controversial issues on chest wall tumors and resection could possibly serve as further guidance in clinical practice during the upcoming years.

Oncological Outcome of Surgically Resected Sternal Tumors, 16 Years’ Experience

BACKGROUND: Tumors of the sternum are rare and can develop from primary bone pathology or through metastatic spread. Sternal resection with immediate reconstruction of the anterior chest wall defect was recommended for both primary and secondary sternal tumors as curative treatment. AIM: The purpose of our study was to examine the perioperative outcomes, recurrence rate, and OS in patients undergoing partial, subtotal, and total sternectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed our experience with sternal resections in 29 patients during a 16-year period. The purpose of our study was to examine the perioperative outcomes, recurrence rate, and overall survival (OS) in patients undergoing partial, subtotal, and total sternectomy. RESULTS: We found that 5-year OS was 26.0%, Univariate analysis of predictors of survival revealed that, there was a trend toward prolonged 5-year survival at R0 resection (35.5% vs. 0%, p = 0.058). Post resection defect size associated with prolonged 5-year OS (42.1% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). The absence of post-operative complications associated with prolonged 5-year OS (40.4% vs. 0%, p = 0.012), with special attention to absence of post-operative flail chest which was associated with prolonged 5-year OS (36.2% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, R0 resection (HR, 3.692 [95% CI, 1.190–11.456], p = 0.024) and absence of post-operative flail chest (HR, 52.204 [95% CI, 5.908–461.289], p < 0.001) were associated with improved OS. CONCLUSIONS: We have shown that sternal resection of benign and primary malignant tumors can yield long-term survival. The completeness of resection and absence of postoperative flail chest are the strongest predictors of survival.

Use of pedicled latissimus dorsi flap in anterior chest wall reconstruction

Successful surgical management of chest wall tumours relies on extensive chest wall resection with adequate margins. In large complex tumours, return to form and function is determined by appropriate skeletal and soft tissue reconstruction of the chest wall defect. We report an original case of a large 11×16×3 cm ulcerative basosquamous carcinoma of the anterior chest wall. Soft tissue reconstruction was performed with a unilateral pedicled latissimus dorsi flap. A multidisciplinary approach between thoracic and plastic surgeons was used in the planning, intraoperative and follow-up periods. This case highlights a good long-term functional and cosmetic outcome in complex chest wall reconstruction as a result of successful cross-specialty collaboration.

Surgical Management of Chest Wall Sarcoma

Chest wall sarcoma is a rare and challenging pathology best managed by a multidisciplinary team experienced in the management of a multiple different pathologies. Knowledge of the management sequence is important for each sarcoma type in order to provide optimal treatment. Surgical resection of chest wall resections remains the primary treatment of disease isolated to the chest wall. Optimal margins of resection and reconstruction techniques have yet to be determined.

[Chest Wall Reconstruction Using Polypropylene Mesh: a Single-Center 8-Year Analysis]

BACKGROUND

Chest wall resection for malignant tumours is usually combined with reconstruction of the bony defect. We analysed our single centre, 8-year, experience using polypropylene mesh for chest wall reconstruction. The goal of our retrospective study was to identify material-related complications and to compare them with the existing literature.

METHODS

The inclusion criterion in our retrospective cohort was a full-thickness chest wall excision and reconstruction using a polypropylene mesh with a mainly oncological indication spectrum (e.g. sarcomas, metastases, lung carcinomas with infiltration of the chest wall) in the period from January 2008 to January 2017. Primary endpoints were material-related complications: local infection, seroma, material migration, mesh explantation and chest wall instability. Secondary endpoints were the following postoperative complications: pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), postoperative bleeding and prolonged postoperative ventilation (> 24 h postoperatively).

RESULTS

A total of 202 chest wall resections were performed in our clinic over a period of 8 years. Of these, 138 defects were reconstructed using a polypropylene mesh. Pneumonia was the most common postoperative complication at a rate of 12.3%. In 5.7% of the cases, a wound seroma developed that made it necessary to insert a Redon suction drain. Local wound infection was confirmed microbiologically in three cases (2.1%). In one of these cases, the reconstruction material had to be removed. The 30-day mortality rate was 1.4% with two postoperative deaths. Material migration or chest wall instability with a paradoxical pattern of breathing movement were not documented.

CONCLUSION

Chest wall reconstruction using polypropylene mesh is a technique with low material-related complication rate. The low rate of local infections, material explantation, and chest instability documented in our cohort can be a helpful decision factor for the operating thoracic surgeon looking for the appropriate reconstruction material.

Giant chondrosarcoma of the chest wall: a rare surgical challenge

The chest wall chondrosarcoma (CWC) is a rare slowly growing primary tumor of the chest wall with an incidence of <0.5 per million person-years. We present the case of a giant CWC that caused a mass effect on the mediastinum, heart, and lung. Large tumors with thoracic structures compression may be life threatening, and its resection and subsequent chest wall reconstruction represent a significant multidisciplinary surgical challenge. In this case, despite the large tumor dimensions, the preoperative planning—sparing key reconstructive options without compromising the tumor resection—allowed a complete en bloc tumor excision of a grade III chondrosarcoma with negative histologic margins. Successful reconstruction of the large full-thickness chest wall defect, with a latissimus dorsi muscle flap and methyl methacrylate incorporated into a polypropylene mesh in a sandwich fashion, was accomplished. Patient recovery was uneventful with good functional and aesthetic outcomes, and no evidence of recurrence at 1.5 years follow-up. This case report illustrates the main clinical, radiological, and histologic features of a CWC while discussing the surgical goals and highlighting the principles for chest wall reconstruction following extensive resection of a large and rare entity.

11-year experience with Chest Wall resection and reconstruction for primary Chest Wall sarcomas

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Primary chest wall sarcomas are rare and therapeutically challenging tumors. Herein we report the outcomes of a surgery-based multimodality therapy for these pathologies over an 11-year period. In addition, we present a case that illustrates the surgical challenges that extensive chest wall resection may pose.

METHODS

Using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons general thoracic surgery database, we have prospectively collected data in our institute on all patients undergoing chest wall resection and reconstruction for primary chest wall sarcomas between June 2008-October 2019.

RESULTS

We performed 28 surgical procedures on 25 patients aged 5 to 91 years (median age 33). Eleven tumors were bone- and cartilage-derived and 14 tumors originated from soft tissue elements. Seven patients (7/25, 28%) received neo-adjuvant therapy and 14 patients (14/25, 56%) received adjuvant therapy. The median number of ribs that were resected was 2.5 (range 0 to 6). In 18/28 (64%) of surgeries, additional skeletal or visceral organs were removed, including: diaphragm [1], scapula [2], sternum [2], lung [2], vertebra [1], clavicle [1] and colon [1]. Chest wall reconstruction was deemed necessary in 16/28 (57%) of cases, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Gore-Tex patches was used in 13/28 (46%) of cases and biological flaps where used in 4/28 (14%) of cases. R0, R1 and R2 resection margins were achieved in 19/28 (68%), 9/28 (32%) and 0/28 (0%) of cases, respectively. The median follow up time was 33 months (range 2 to 138). During the study period, disease recurred in 8/25 (32%) of patients. Of these, 3 were re-operated on and are free of disease. At date of last follow up, 5/25 (20%) of patients have died due to their disease and in contrast, 20/25 (80%) were alive with no evidence of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery-based multimodality therapy is an effective treatment approach for primary chest wall sarcomas. Resection of additional skeletal or visceral organs and reconstruction with synthetic and/or biological flaps is often required in order to obtain R0 resection margins. Ultimately, long-term survival in this clinical scenario is an achievable goal.

Reconstruction of Oncologic Sternectomy Defects: Lessons Learned from 60 Cases at a Single Institution

Oncologic sternectomy results in complex defects where preoperative planning is paramount to achieve best reconstructive outcomes. Although pectoralis major muscle flap (PMF) is the workhorse for sternal soft tissue coverage, additional flaps can be required. Our purpose is to evaluate defects in which other flaps beside PMF were required to achieve optimal reconstruction.

Primary Chest Wall Sarcoma: Surgical Outcomes and Prognostic Factors

Background

Primary chest wall sarcoma is a rare disease with limited reports of surgical resection.

Methods

This retrospective review included 41 patients with primary chest wall sarcoma who underwent chest wall resection and reconstruction from 2001 to 2015. The clinical, histologic, and surgical variables were collected and analyzed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses for overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS).

Results

The OS rates at 5 and 10 years were 73% and 61%, respectively. The RFS rate at 10 years was 57.1%. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed old age (hazard ratio [HR], 5.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.71–15.48) as a significant risk factor for death. A surgical resection margin distance of less than 1.5 cm (HR, 15.759; 95% CI, 1.78–139.46) and histologic grade III (HR, 28.36; 95% CI, 2.76–290.87) were independent risk factors for recurrence.

Conclusion

Long-term OS and RFS after the surgical resection of primary chest wall sarcoma were clinically acceptable.

Multidisciplinary Assessment of Planning and Resection of Complex Bone Tumor Using Patient-Specific 3D Model

Oncological interventions in thoracic cavity have some important problems such as choice of correct operative approaches depending on the tumor, size, extension, and location. In sarcoma surgery, wide resection should be aimed for the curative surgery. Purpose of this study was to evaluate pre-operative planning of patient-specific thoracic cavity model made by multidisciplinary surgeon team for complex tumor mass for oncological procedures. Patient's scans showed a large mass encroaching on the mediastinum and heart, with erosion of the adjacent ribs and vertebral column. Individual model of this case with thoracic tumor was reconstructed from the DICOM file of the CT data. Surgical team including six interdisciplinary surgeons explained their surgical experience of the use of 3D life-size individual model for guiding surgical treatment. Before patients consented to surgery, each surgeon explained the surgical procedure and perioperative risks to her. A questionnaire was applied to 10 surgical residents to evaluate the 3D model's perception. 3D model scans were useful in determining the site of the lesion, the exact size, extension, attachment to the surrounding structures such as lung, aorta, vertebral column, or vascular involvement, the number of involved ribs, whether the diaphragm was involved also in which order surgeons in the team enter the surgery. 3D model's perception was detected statistical significance as < 0.05. Viewing thoracic cavity with tumor model was more efficient than CT imaging. This case was surgically difficult as it included vital structures such as the mediastinal vessels, aorta, ribs, sternum, and vertebral bodies. A difficult pathology for which 3D model has already been explored to assist anatomic visualization was mediastinal osteosarcoma of the chest wall, diaphragm, and the vertebral column. The study helped to establish safe surgical line wherever the healthy tissue was retained and enabled osteotomy of the affected spinal corpus vertically with posterior-anterior direction by preserving the spinal cord and the spinal nerves above and distal the tumor. 3D tumor model helps to transfer complex anatomical information to surgeons, provide guidance in the pre-operative planning stage, for intra-operative navigation and for surgical collaboration purposes. Total radical excision of the bone tumor and reconstructions of remaining structures using life-size model was the key for successful treatment and better outcomes. The recent explosion in popularity of 3D printing is a testament to the promise of this technology and its profound utility in orthopedic oncological surgery.

Predictors of survival after resection of primary sarcomas of the chest wall-A large, single-institution series

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Chest wall sarcomas are rare and may demonstrate heterogeneous features. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy used as adjuncts. Herein, we report outcomes of a large cohort of patients with primary chest wall sarcoma who underwent resection.

METHODS

Records of 121 patients who underwent resection for primary chest wall sarcoma between 1998 and 2013 were reviewed. A thoracic pathologist reexamined all tumors and categorized them according to grade. Univariable and multivariable Cox analyses were conducted to identify predictors of overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

The median age was 45.0 (range, 11-81) years, and most tumors (63.6%, 77) were high grade. The median tumor size was 7 cm (range, 1-21 cm). Fifty-nine (48.8%) patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and 12 (9.9%) received neoadjuvant radiotherapy. A complete resection was achieved in 103 (85.1%) patients. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (P = 0.532) and radiation ( P = 1.000) were not associated with a complete resection. Five-year OS among patients undergoing R0 and R1 resections was 61.9% and 27.8%, respectively. Multivariable analysis identified high grade (HR, 15.21; CI, 3.57-64.87; P < 0.001), R1 (HR, 3.10; CI, 1.40-6.86; P = 0.005), R2 resection (HR, 5.18; CI, 1.91-14.01; P = 0.001), and age (HR, 1.02; CI, 1.01-1.03; P = 0.002) as predictors of OS.

CONCLUSIONS

In this series of resected chest wall sarcomas, complete resection and tumor grade remain the most important survival predictors. Individual decisions are required for the utilization of neoadjuvant therapy.

[Advance of Treatment for Superior Sulcus Tumor of the Lung]

肺上沟瘤是指发生在肺上沟区的的支气管源性肿瘤, 是非小细胞肺癌(non-small cell lung cancer, NSCLC)的一个独特的临床亚型, 占肺癌总数不足5%。它常侵犯第1肋、臂丛、锁骨下动静脉、交感神经链、星状神经节和(或)椎体等胸廓入口结构。近几十年, 肺上沟瘤的治疗取得了不断的进展, 最新发布的几个临床试验证实了同期放化疗加手术切除能够改善肿瘤的完整切除率、局部控制率和病理缓解率, 延长患者的总生存时间。已经成为肺上沟瘤的治疗最为有效的方式, 并成为美国国立综合癌症网络(National Comprehensive Cancer Network, NCCN)和美国胸科医师协会(American College of Chest Physicians, ACCP)指南推荐的肺上沟瘤治疗方案。本文回顾国内外相关文献, 简要介绍肺上沟瘤手术治疗及综合治疗的进展情况。

Long-term outcomes of patients with soft tissue sarcoma of the chest wall: Analysis of the prognostic significance of microscopic margins

Data on prognostic factors and treatment outcomes for chest wall soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are sparse. Wide resections with negative margins are the mainstay of therapy, but the prognostic impact of surgical margins remains controversial. The purpose of the present study was to determine the significance of microscopic margins through a long-term follow-up. The associations between local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), overall survival (OS) and potential prognostic factors were retrospectively assessed in a consecutive series of 110 patients who were suitable for surgical treatment with curative intent. Potential prognostic factors were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. The median follow-up time following primary diagnosis was 9.6 years [95% confidence interval (CI), 7.2–10.5]. In the entire cohort, the 5-year estimates of the OS and LRFS rates were 66.0% (95% CI, 55.9–74.3) and 60.6% (95% CI, 50.3–69.4), respectively. A total of 27 patients (24.5%) developed distant metastases with a median survival time of 0.9 years following the diagnosis of metastasis. Surgical margins attained at the initial resection and eventual re-excisions significantly influenced OS in univariate analysis (5-year OS, R0 69.9% vs. R1/R2 38.5%; P=0.046), but this failed to reach statistical significance in the multivariate analysis. In the multivariate analysis, significant adverse prognostic features of LRFS included angiosarcoma subtype, G2 and G3 histology. For OS, the only independent significant predictors were age >50 years, tumor size >5 cm, angiosarcoma subtype and G3 histology. The results of the present study suggest that tumor biology, as reflected by the histological grade, influences the final outcome in patients with chest wall STS. Surgical margins failed to reach statistical significance in multivariate analysis as they demonstrated a dependency towards the independent predictors of OS. Subsequently, a positive margin status may be a result rather than a cause of biological aggressiveness, and it may not influence the outcome directly.

Intra- and Extra-Thoracic Muscle Flaps and Chest Wall Reconstruction Following Resection of Thoracic Tumors

Improvements in surgical technique over the last decade enable surgeons to perform extensive resection and reconstruction in patients presenting with tumors involving the soft tissue or bony structures of the chest wall. The type of surgical resection and its size, depend on the type of tumor resected and its location. In addition to providing a better esthetic result, the reconstruction restores support and functionality of the thoracic cage. The approach to chest wall repair includes primary closure or reconstruction by using transposition flaps, free flaps, prosthetic material, or a mixture of a flap and prosthetic material.

Short and long-term results of sternectomy for sternal tumours

Background

We analyzed our experience in sternal resections (SRs) for primary or secondary neoplasm focusing on technical aspects of reconstruction, post-operative outcomes and long term survival.

Methods

From January 2005 to December 2015, 36 patients (24 males, 67%) underwent surgical excision of primary (chondrosarcoma n=18 patients, 50%; osteosarcoma n=2, 6%; Ewing sarcoma n=1, 3%; other n=2, 6%) or secondary (breast cancer n=7, 19%; kidney carcinoma n=2, 6%) sternal tumour. We performed n=30 partial sternectomy and n=6 total sternectomy with en-bloc resection of the sternocostal cartilages in all patient and extended resection in 7 patients. Stability was obtained with prosthetic material, rigid and non-rigid and a muscular flap: rigid material [Strasbourg Thoracic Osteosynthesis System (STRATOS), MedXpert GmbH] and muscle flap n=11 (30.6%); polytetrafluoroethylene patch and muscle flap n=6 (16.7%); muscle flap alone n=19 (52.8%).

Results

The 30-day mortality rate was 0, overall complication rate was 19%. The median ICU stay was 1.5 days and mean hospital stay was 10.6±5.9 days. We obtained a complete (R0) resection in all patients. Overall survival (OS) at 5 and 10 years were 59% and 40%; in the group of primary neoplasm OS rate at 5 and 10 years was 79% and 54%. Disease free survival (DFS) rate at 5 years was 61%. Higher grading was identified as negative prognostic factor.

Conclusions

Wide radical resections of anterior chest wall are basilar in a multimodality treatment for primary or metastatic neoplasm of the sternum. Stabilization with titanium bars and clips provides rigidity of chest wall with good functional results.

Desmoid Tumors of the Chest Wall

Chest wall desmoid tumors (DT) are rare pathologic entities with microscopic features similar to, or undistinguishable from, fibromas or fibrosarcomas. From 1996 to 2001, four patients with DT were surgically managed in our department. Their ages ranged from 27 years to 43 years (mean 32.25 years, median 29.5 years). A resection of the lesion was performed with negative margins of 4 cm around the tumor (wide resection). A reconstruction of the chest wall was also performed with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) in 2 patients and methylmethacrolate with Marlex mesh in 1 patient. One patient had a recurrence 15 months later, and was admitted for complementary resection, and remains disease-free for 5 years. The rest 3 patients are disease-free for 6 months to 5 years. Resection must include all adjacent, overlying and underlying musculature as well as soft tissues and any spare skin from the procedure should be used. Prognosis after a wide resection is good.

Massive chest wall resection and reconstruction for malignant disease

Objective

Malignant chest wall tumors are rare neoplasms. Resection with wide-free margins is an important prognostic factor, and massive chest wall resection and reconstruction are often necessary. A recent case series of 20 consecutive patients is reported in order to find any possible correlation between tumor histology, extent of resection, type of reconstruction, and adjuvant treatment with short- and long-term outcomes.

Methods

Twenty patients were submitted to chest wall resection and reconstruction for malignant chest wall neoplasms between 2006 and 2014. The mean age (ten males) was 59±4 years. The size and histology of the tumor, the technique of reconstruction, and the short- and long-term follow-up records were noted.

Results

The median maximum diameter of tumors was 10 cm (5.4–32 cm). Subtotal sternal resection was performed in nine cases, and the resection of multiple ribs was performed in eleven cases. The median area of chest wall defect was 108 cm² (60–340 cm²). Histology revealed soft tissue, bone, and cartilage sarcomas in 16 cases (80%), most of them chondrosarcomas. The rest of the tumors was metastatic tumors in two cases and localized malignant pleural mesothelioma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in one case. The chest wall defect was reconstructed by using the “sandwich technique” (propylene mesh/methyl methacrylate/propylene mesh) in nine cases of large anterior defects or by using a 2 mm polytetrafluoroethylene (e-PTFE) mesh in nine cases of lateral or posterior defects. Support from a plastic surgeon was necessary to cover the full-thickness chest wall defects in seven cases. Adjuvant oncologic treatment was administered in 13 patients. Local recurrences were observed in five cases where surgical reintervention was finally necessary in two cases. Recurrences were associated with larger tumors, histology of malignant fibrous histiocytoma, and initial incomplete resection or misdiagnosis made by nonthoracic surgeons. Three patients died during the study period because of recurrent disease or complications of treatment for recurrent disease.

Conclusion

Chest wall tumors are in their majority mesenchymal neoplasms, which often require major chest wall resection for their eradication. Long-term survival is expected in low-grade tumors where a radical resection is achieved, while big tumors and histology of malignant fibrous histiocytoma are connected with the increase rate of recurrence.

Thoracic Wall Reconstruction after Tumor Resection

Introduction

Surgical treatment of malignant thoracic wall tumors represents a formidable challenge. In particular, locally advanced tumors that have already infiltrated critical anatomic structures are associated with a high surgical morbidity and can result in full-thickness defects of the thoracic wall. Plastic surgery can reduce this surgical morbidity by reconstructing the thoracic wall through various tissue transfer techniques. Sufficient soft-tissue reconstruction of the thoracic wall improves quality of life and mitigates functional impairment after extensive resection. The aim of this article is to illustrate the various plastic surgery treatment options in the multimodal therapy of patients with malignant thoracic wall tumors.

Materials and methods

This article is based on a review of the current literature and the evaluation of a patient database.

Results

Several plastic surgical treatment options can be implemented in the curative and palliative therapy of patients with malignant solid tumors of the chest wall. Large soft-tissue defects after tumor resection can be covered by local, pedicled, or free flaps. In cases of large full-thickness defects, flaps can be combined with polypropylene mesh to improve chest wall stability and to maintain pulmonary function. The success of modern medicine has resulted in an increasing number of patients with prolonged survival suffering from locally advanced tumors that can be painful, malodorous, or prone to bleeding. Resection of these tumors followed by thoracic wall reconstruction with viable tissue can substantially enhance the quality of life of these patients.

Discussion

In curative treatment regimens, chest wall reconstruction enables complete resection of locally advanced tumors and subsequent adjuvant radiotherapy. In palliative disease treatment, plastic surgical techniques of thoracic wall reconstruction provide palliation of tumor-associated morbidity and can therefore improve patients’ quality of life.

Resection of Primary and Secondary Tumors of the Sternum: An Analysis of Prognostic Variables

BACKGROUND

We sought to determine the prognostic variables associated with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free probability (RFP) in patients with primary and secondary sternal tumors treated with surgical resection.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent resection of primary or secondary sternal tumors at 2 cancer institutes between 1995 and 2013 was performed. OS and RFP were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and predictors of OS and RFP were analyzed using the Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS

Sternal resection was performed in 78 patients with curative (67 [86%]) or palliative (6 [8%]) intent. Seventy-three patients (94%) had malignant tumors, of which 28 (36%) were primary and 45 (57%) were secondary malignancies. Sternal resections were complete in 13 patients (17%) and partial in 65 (83%). There were no perioperative deaths, and grade III/IV complications were noted in 17 patients (22%). The 5-year OS was 80% for patients with primary malignant tumors, 73% for patients with nonbreast secondary malignant tumors, and 58% for patients with breast tumors (p = 0.85). In the overall cohort, R0 resection was associated with prolonged 5-year OS (84% vs 20%) on univariate (p = 0.004) and multivariate (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.37; p = 0.029) analysis. On subgroup analysis, R0 resection was associated with improved OS and RFP only for patients with primary malignant tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Sternal resection can achieve favorable OS for patients with primary and secondary sternal tumors. R0 resection is associated with improved 5-year OS and RFP in patients with primary malignant tumors. We did not detect a similar effect in patients with breast or nonbreast secondary tumors.

Osteoid osteoma of the rib: A report of two cases

Osteoid osteoma is type of benign bone tumor, characterized by a well-demarcated core with a typical size of <1 cm and by a distinctive surrounding zone of reactive bone formation. The tumor can occur anywhere in the cortex or medulla of the skeleton. However, the lesion usually affects the long bones of the lower extremities. The present study describes two cases of osteoid osteomas located in the rib.

Long-term treatment results in soft tissue sarcomas of the thoracic wall treated with pre-or-postoperative radiotherapy--a single institution experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long term results among patients with soft tissue sarcoma of the thoracic wall.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-six patients who were treated with pre-or postoperative radiotherapy between December 1980-December 2007, with a diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma of the thoracic wall were retrospectively evaluated.

RESULTS

The median age was 44 years (14-85 years) and 15 of them were male. A total of 50% of patients were grade 3. The most common histologic type of tumor was undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (26.9%). Tumor size varied between 2-25 cm (median 6.5 cm). Seventeen of the cases had marginal and 9 had wide local resection. Four cases received preoperative radiotherapy and 22 postoperative radiotherapy. Six of the patients with large and high grade tumors received chemotherapy. Median follow-up time was 82 months (9-309 months). Local recurrence and metastasis was detected in 34.6% and 42.3% of patients, respectively. Five- year local control (LC), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and disease-specific survival (DSS) were 62%, 38%, 69%, and 76% respectively. On univariate analysis, the patients with positive surgical margins had a markedly lower 5-year LC rate than patients with negative surgical margin, but the difference was not significant (43% vs 78%, p=0.1). Five-year DFS (66% vs 17%) and DSS (92% vs 60%) rates were significantly worse for the patients who had high grade tumors (p=0.01, p=0.008 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor grade and surgical margin are essential parameters for determining the prognosis of thoracic wall soft tissue sarcoma both in our series and the literature.

Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma of the rib masquerading as a giant chest wall tumor in a teenage girl: an unusual presentation

Chondrosarcoma of the chest wall is a rare primary neoplasm found to occur in elderly men. Patients present with an enlarging, painful, anterior chest wall mass arising from either the vicinity of the costochondral junction or the sternum. Treatment includes wide resection with appropriate chest wall reconstruction. We report an unusual presentation of this uncommon tumor occurring as a huge chest wall mass in a young teenage girl.

Giant osteosarcoma of chest wall requiring resection and pneumonectomy

We present the case of a 13-year-old girl who had a large swelling in her left breast with a history of weight loss, low-grade fever, and cold sweats. Computed tomography showed a large mass encroaching on the mediastinum and heart, with erosion of the adjacent ribs. Resection of the mass along with a pneumonectomy were performed. Postoperative tests showed no sign of metastases.

Surgical therapy of primary malignant bone tumours and soft tissue sarcomas of the chest wall: a two-institutional experience

PURPOSE

Primary malignant bone tumours and soft tissue sarcomas of the chest wall are exceedingly rare entities. The aim of this study was a retrospective two-institutional analysis of surgical therapy with respect to the kind and amount of the resection performed, the type of reconstruction and the oncological outcome.

METHODS

Between September 1999 and August 2010 31 patients (seven women and 24 men) were treated due to a primary malignant bone tumour or soft tissue sarcoma of the chest wall in two centres. Eight low-grade sarcomas were noted as well as 23 highly malignant sarcomas. The tumours originated from the sternum in six cases, from the ribs in 12 cases, from the soft tissues of the thoracic wall in 11 cases and from a vertebral body and the clavicle in one case each.

RESULTS

In 26 cases wide resection margins were achieved, while four were intralesional and one was marginal. In all 31 cases the defect of the chest wall was reconstructed using mesh grafts. At a mean follow-up of 51 months 20 patients were without evidence of disease, three were alive with disease, seven patients had died and one patient was lost to follow-up. One recurrence was detected after wide resection of a malignant triton tumour.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary malignant bone tumour or soft tissue sarcoma of the chest wall should be treated according to the same surgical oncological principles as established for the extremities. Reconstruction with mesh grafts and musculocutaneous flaps is associated with a low morbidity.

Tumors of the rib

The authors propose a pictorial review illustrating the imaging features of chest wall tumors and their specific features that discusses the main differential diagnoses. This review is based on published information and on our own experience.

Optimizing reconstruction of oncologic sternectomy defects based on surgical outcomes

BACKGROUND

The optimal strategy for oncologic sternectomy reconstruction has not been well characterized. We hypothesized that the major factors driving the reconstructive strategy for oncologic sternectomy include the need for skin replacement, extent of the bony sternectomy defect, and status of the internal mammary vessels.

STUDY DESIGN

We reviewed consecutive oncologic sternectomy reconstructions performed at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center during a 10-year period. Regression models analyzed associations between patient, defect, and treatment factors and outcomes to identify patient and treatment selection criteria. We developed a generalized management algorithm based on these data.

RESULTS

Forty-nine consecutive patients underwent oncologic sternectomy reconstruction (mean follow-up 18 ± 23 months). More sternectomies were partial (74%) rather than total/subtotal (26%). Most defects (n = 40 [82%]) required skeletal reconstruction. Pectoralis muscle flaps were most commonly used for sternectomies with intact overlying skin (64%) and infrequently used when a presternal skin defect was present (36%; p = 0.06). Free flaps were more often used for total/subtotal vs partial sternectomy defects (75% vs 25%, respectively; p = 0.02). Complication rates for total/subtotal sternectomy and partial sternectomy were equivalent (46% vs 44%, respectively; p = 0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite more extensive sternal resections, total/subtotal sternectomies resulted in equivalent postoperative complications when combined with the appropriate soft-tissue reconstruction. Good surgical and oncologic outcomes can be achieved with defect-characteristic-matched reconstructive strategies for these complex oncologic sternectomy resections.

Prediction of treatment outcomes in patients with chest wall sarcoma: evaluation with PET/CT

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic implications of (18)F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in patients with chest wall sarcoma.

METHODS

Positron emission tomography/computed tomography scans of 42 patients (mean age: 46 years) with chest wall sarcomas were analyzed. Pathologic confirmation was obtained by surgical specimens in all patients. Tumor grade assessed by Ki-67 (MIB-1) immunohistochemical analysis and expression of glucose transporter protein 1 were compared with a maximum standardized uptake value. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted for estimates of overall and event-free survivals.

RESULTS

The median maximum standardized uptake value of the tumor was 10.2 and the median MIB-1 index of the tumor was 32.5%. Glucose transporter protein 1 expression was found in 29 patients (69%). Univariate analyses revealed that surgery, chemotherapy, MIB-1 labeling index (cut-off 32.5%), MIB-1 grade, glucose transporter protein 1 expression and maximum standardized uptake value were possible predictors for overall and event-free survival. Multivariate analysis revealed that surgery (hazard ratio, 4.852; P = 0.017), maximum standardized uptake value (hazard ratio, 3.077; P = 0.037) and MIB-1 labeling index (hazard ratio, 6.549; P = 0.003) were independent predictors of event-free survival. In addition, surgery (hazard ratio, 4.092; P = 0.021) and maximum standardized uptake value (hazard ratio, 2.968; P = 0.027) were independent predictors of overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

(18)F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography allows the prediction of prognosis after treatment in patients with chest wall sarcoma and may be useful in selecting high-risk patients for more risk-adapted treatments.

Chest wall resection and reconstruction according to the principles of biomimesis

Biomimesis has become the objective of the reconstructive strategies after chest wall resections for primary or secondary tumors. Biomimesis is pursued by respecting the anatomy, preserving function, selecting adequate reconstructive materials, and integrating multidisciplinary efforts for complex reconstructions. Elements of novelty in the clinical practice are represented by the introduction of the principles of video-assisted thoracic surgery to resect chest wall tumors and the increasingly frequent resort to either new materials or revised concepts of time-honored ones for chest wall reconstruction. Experimental investigation seems to outline interesting perspectives for materials destined to reconstruction after either partial or full-thickness resections for recurrent chest wall tumors.

Chest wall sarcomas are accurately diagnosed by image-guided core needle biopsy

OBJECTIVE

Sarcomas are rare mesenchymal malignancies. Accurate preoperative diagnosis is a prerequisite in considering investigational or institutional management algorithms that include neoadjuvant treatment. We reviewed our experience using core needle biopsy for chest wall sarcomas.

METHODS

A retrospective review of our sarcoma databases revealed that 40 core needle biopsies and 35 tumor resections were performed in 34 patients, with chest wall musculoskeletal tumors, referred to the University of California, Los Angeles from 1991 to 2010. Primary, metastatic, or recurrent sarcomas involving the sternum, ribs, and soft tissues of the chest wall were evaluated for (1) adequacy of tissue from image-guided core needle biopsies and (2) accuracy in determining malignancy, histological subtype, and sarcoma grade.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight of the 40 needle biopsy samples (70%) were adequate for histopathological analysis. Forty-two percent of nondiagnostic findings occurred due to insufficient tissue, whereas the remainder had sufficient tissue, but the pathologist was unable to determine specific histology. Excluding the nondiagnostic samples, the accuracy in determining malignancy, histological subtype, and grade in sarcomas was 100, 92, and 87%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of determining malignancy and high-grade sarcomas were 100, 100, 77, and 100%, respectively. There were no complications from the image-guided biopsies.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that image-guided core needle biopsy when performed and reviewed by experienced radiologists and musculoskeletal pathologists is a safe and accurate diagnostic technique for chest wall sarcomas. Core needle biopsy should be considered in the multidisciplinary approach to chest wall musculoskeletal tumors, especially when induction therapy is considered.

[A case of costal haemangioma]

Costal primary tumors are rare and dominated by malignant tumors. Haemangioma of the bone represents only 1% of bone tumors. Costal localization accounts only for 1% of the cases and only about fifty cases have been reported in the literature.

AIM

The authors aim to describe a rare costal tumor, its histological features and the main differential diagnoses.

OBSERVATION

The authors describe the case of a 46-year-old woman who presented with chest pain. Radiological findings did not permit a malignant tumor to be ruled out and the treatment consisted of a resection of the posterior arch of the rib. Microscopic examination concluded that the patient had a costal haemangioma and the patient didn't present any recurrence after a six-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The costal haemangioma is a very rare tumor with a debated etiology. Some radiological features are specific such as the "soap bubble" or "honeycomb" aspect. However, the basis for diagnosis remains microscopic examination. These tumors have a good prognosis and no cases of recurrence have been reported following complete resection.

Chest wall sarcomas and induction therapy

Chest wall sarcomas are uncommon tumors. The best patient outcomes likely result from a formalized multidisciplinary treatment plan in a specialized center. No clear guidelines exist to determine whether patients with chest wall sarcomas benefit from preoperative adjuvant therapy. Most decisions are made on a case-by-case basis with little available evidence. It is unclear whether established guidelines for the more commonly occurring extremity sarcomas can be appropriately extrapolated to the care of patients with chest wall disease. The single most important factor in local control and long-term survival is a wide, complete, R0 resection.

Chondrosarcoma of the thorax

Although a rare entity, chondrosarcoma is the most common malignant tumor of the chest wall. Most patients present with an enlarging, painful anterior chest wall mass arising from the costochondrosternal junction. CT scan with intravenous contrast is the gold standard radiographic study for diagnosis and operative planning. Contrary to previous dictum, resection may be performed in an appropriate surgical candidate based on imaging characteristics or image-guided percutaneous biopsy results; incisional biopsy is rarely required. The keys to successful treatment are early recognition and radical excision with adequate margins, as chondrosarcoma is relatively resistant to radiotherapy and conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. Overall survival is excellent in most surgical series from experienced centers. Complete excision with widely negative microscopic margins at the initial operation is of the utmost importance, as local recurrence portends systemic metastasis and eventual tumor-related mortality. This paper summarizes data from relevant surgical series and thereupon draws conclusions regarding preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management of thoracic chondrosarcoma.

Principles of chest wall resection and reconstruction

Despite significant improvements in surgical technique and perioperative care, the management of patients requiring chest wall resection and reconstruction is an ongoing challenge for thoracic surgeons. A successful approach includes a thorough assessment of the patient and the lesion, an adequate biopsy to confirm tissue diagnosis, and a well-established treatment plan. In the case of a primary tumor of the chest wall, the extent of the resection should not be limited by the size of the resulting defect. Following resection, chest wall reconstruction mandates an appreciation for restoration of functional and structural components. An algorithmic approach to chest wall reconstruction begins with the assessment of the nature of the defect, taking into consideration factors such as infection, tumor location, previous radiation therapy, and surgical intervention. The latter factors bear influence on the type of tissue required as well as whether reconstruction can be performed in a single stage or whether it is better delayed. Finally, patient factors including lifestyle and work, as well as prognosis, are considered to determine the best reconstructive option.

Tumors of the mediastinum and chest wall

Primary tumors of the mediastinum and chest wall comprise a diverse group of conditions with a wide range of presentations. A thorough knowledge of thoracic anatomy is essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Given their proximity to critical structures, treatment of these tumors is often challenging. Although surgery is the mainstay of therapy for most mediastinal and chest wall tumors, a multidisciplinary approach is valuable in many cases.

Arteriovenous loops in microsurgical free tissue transfer in reconstruction of central sternal defects

OBJECTIVE

In some patients with chest wall defects, free tissue transfer is indicated. Complications arise if multiple operations have left the trunk devoid of recipient vessels. In such patients, an arteriovenous loop between the cephalic vein and the thoracoacromial artery can be used.

METHODS

A review of all our patients who underwent chest wall reconstruction with a cephalic vein-thoracoacromial artery loop between 2000 and 2009 was performed (n = 29, 19 women and 10 men). The mean age was 64.9 years. Underlying causes were sternal osteomyelitis (n = 20), tumor (n = 4), and osteoradionecrosis (n = 5). All patients were in American Society of Anesthesiologists classes III and IV. Flap selection, intraoperative and postoperative complications, operative time, time of ventilatory support, mean hospital stay, and midterm survival were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients received a tensor fascia lata flap, 2 a vertical rectus myocutaneuos flap, and 2 a deep inferior epigastric perforator flap. Mean duration of surgery was 6.8 hours (4.7-10.5 hours). Two transplanted tissue flaps died and/or had to be removed and 4 were revised successfully. Seven patients had wound complications such as infection or prolonged wound healing. Mean time for ventilator support was 93.6 hours (4-463 hours). The median intensive care unit time was 11 days and the overall hospital stay 27.4 days (11-102 days). One-year survival in the whole group was 69.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

The concept of arteriovenous loops allows creation of neovessels at the recipient site and has proven to be a superb tool to facilitate free tissue transfer or to provide an exit strategy in situations with unexpected vascular problems at the recipient site.

Complications in wound healing after chest wall resection in cancer patients; a multivariate analysis of 220 patients

BACKGROUND

Extensive chest wall resections can provoke a wide variety of complications, in particular, complicated wound healing. A lower complication rate will be achieved when local factors contributing to wound healing can be identified and improved. The aim of this study is to describe these factors, irrespective of prognosis, survival, or systemic complications.

METHODS

Retrospectively, the files of all patients undergoing an extended chest wall resection in a single institute during a 20-year period were retrieved. Patient demographics, use of preoperative therapy, tumor histology, the type of prosthesis (if any), and postoperative wound complications were recorded. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify factors contributing significantly to wound healing problems.

RESULTS

From January 1987 to December 2006, 220 patients underwent a chest wall resection, defined as resection of at least one rib, and/or part of the sternum. In 145 patients (66%) this procedure was uneventful. Multivariate analysis showed that ulceration of tumor and the use of omentum for soft tissue reconstruction comprised independent factors contributing to impaired wound healing.

CONCLUSION

Several factors leading to wound healing problems exist preoperatively. In a multidisciplinary setting, these factors should be weighed carefully against the possible benefits of an extended chest wall resection. Especially when ulceration of a tumor exists, or when omentum is considered for soft tissue reconstruction, increased risk on wound healing problems occurs. For the majority of patients chest wall resection will remain a safe and suitable procedure.

Primary giant clear cell sarcoma (soft tissue malignant melanoma) of the sternum

One case of a primary clear cell sarcoma of the sternum (also called soft tissue melanoma) is reported. This neoplasm represents a rare occurrence, and as a rule, differential diagnosis with melanoma often requires detailed immunohistochemistry and cytogenetic analysis (ie, rearrangement of EWS gene localized on 22q12 chromosome). Because wide resection is recommended, chest wall reconstruction may pose challenging technical issues. In our patient, we elected not to proceed to clavicular stabilization. Nevertheless, acceptable shoulder girdle mobility was observed after surgery.