Treatment of osseous metastases in patients with renal cell carcinoma

A dynamic visualization clinical tool constructed and validated based on the SEER database for screening the optimal surgical candidates for bone metastasis in primary kidney cancer

The implementation of primary tumor resection (PTR) in the treatment of kidney cancer patients (KC) with bone metastases (BM) has been controversial. This study aims to construct the first tool that can accurately predict the likelihood of PTR benefit in KC patients with BM (KCBM) and select the optimal surgical candidates. This study acquired data on all patients diagnosed with KCBM during 2010-2015 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to achieve balanced matching of PTR and non-PTR groups to eliminate selection bias and confounding factors. The median overall survival (OS) of the non-PTR group was used as the threshold to categorize the PTR group into PTR-beneficial and PTR-Nonbeneficial subgroups. Kaplan-Meier (K-M) survival analysis was used for comparison of survival differences and median OS between groups. Risk factors associated with PTR-beneficial were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC), area under the curve (AUC), calibration curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to validate the predictive performance and clinical utility of the nomogram. Ultimately, 1963 KCBM patients meeting screening criteria were recruited. Of these, 962 patients received PTR and the remaining 1061 patients did not receive PTR. After 1:1 PSM, there were 308 patients in both PTR and non-PTR groups. The K-M survival analysis results showed noteworthy survival disparities between PTR and non-PTR groups, both before and after PSM (p < 0.001). In the logistic regression results of the PTR group, histological type, T/N stage and lung metastasis were shown to be independent risk factors associated with PTR-beneficial. The web-based nomogram allows clinicians to enter risk variables directly and quickly obtain PTR beneficial probabilities. The validation results showed the excellent predictive performance and clinical utility of the nomograms for accurate screening of optimal surgical candidates for KCBM. This study constructed an easy-to-use nomogram based on conventional clinicopathologic variables to accurately select the optimal surgical candidates for KCBM patients.

Solitary versus multiple bone metastases in the appendicular skeleton

Aims

We first sought to compare survival for patients treated surgically for solitary and multiple metastases in the appendicular skeleton, and second, to explore the role of complete and incomplete resection (R0 and R1/R2) in patients with a solitary bony metastasis in the appendicular skeleton.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study on a population-based cohort of all adult patients treated surgically for bony metastases of the appendicular skeleton between January 2014 and December 2019. We excluded patients in whom the status of bone metastases and resection margin was unknown. Patients were followed until the end of the study or to their death. We had no loss to follow-up. We used Kaplan-Meier analysis (with log-rank test) to evaluate patient survival. We identified 506 operations in 459 patients. A total of 120 operations (in 116 patients) were for solitary metastases and 386 (in 345 patients) for multiple metastases. Of the 120 operations, 70 (in 69 patients) had no/an unknown status of visceral metastases (solitary group) and 50 (in 49 patients) had visceral metastases. In the solitary group, 45 operations (in 44 patients) were R0 (resections for cure or complete remission) and 25 (in 25 patients) were R1/R2 (resections leaving microscopic or macroscopic tumour, respectively). The most common types of cancer in the solitary group were kidney (n = 27), lung (n = 25), and breast (n = 20).

Results

The one-year patient survival was 47% (95% confidence interval (CI) 38 to 57) for the solitary bony metastases and 34% (95% CI 29 to 39) for multiple bone metastases (p < 0.001). The one-year patient survival was 64% (95% CI 52 to 75) for solitary bony metastases without/with unknown visceral metastases and 23% (95% CI 11 to 36) for solitary bony metastases with visceral metastases (p < 0.001). The one-year patient survival was 75% (95% CI 62 to 89) for a solitary bony metastasis after R0 surgery and 42% (95% CI 22 to 61) for a solitary bony metastasis with R1/R2 surgery (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the surgical treatment of patients with a solitary bony metastasis to the appendicular skeleton results in better survival than for patients with multiple bony metastases. Furthermore, aggressive treatment of a solitary bony metastasis with R0 surgery may improve patient survival.

Acrometastases to the Hand and Wrist: A Series of 9 Cases and Review of the Literature

Introduction Acrometastases are extremely rare in the hand, with a prevalence of around 0.1% according to the literature. They are normally associated with advanced tumor stages, especially in lung cancer. The present article shows the experience of our center in the management and treatment of these pathologies.

Materials and Methods We report a series of 9 cases treated between 1992 and 2020 in the hand and wrist. Data regarding the primary tumor, the target organ, and survival are analyzed. A review of the cases of acrometastasis reported in the literature is also carried out, emphasizing in how many of then the acral lesion was the first sign of an unknown tumor.

Results Acrometastases predominantly affect male patients aged around 60 years, and the primary tumor that is the cause in most cases is lung cancer, with a very low survival rate after the diagnosis (of approximately 8 months).

Discussion and Conclusions In cases of acral lesion of non-traumatic origin, acrometastases should be considered, especially in patients who have a known primary tumor. In the present series, there were three cases in which the acrometastases were the first sign of a tumor in the patient, and in one of them it was initially treated as whitlow. In the literature, in approximately 50% of the cases, acrometastases are the first sign of the presence of a tumor.

Once diagnosed, multidisciplinary medicosurgical treatment is essential to improve the patient's function and pain as much as possible.

The presenting dental status of solid tumours with bone metastases requiring bone-targeting agents - part 4: miscellaneous cancers

This article discusses relevant information for the dental sector regarding metastatic cancers beyond breast and prostate cancer. Typically, tumour sites such as lung, renal, colorectal, gastrointestinal, thyroid, hepatic and pancreatic cancers are increasingly being referred for bone-targeting agents upon evidence of bone metastases.The current article explores the presenting dental status of these tumour groups on the background of survival outcomes. In addition, the article provides insight towards the complexity in achieving 'dental fitness' and whether 'dental stability' could be an alternative to consider via palliative dentistry in certain cases.

Development and Validation of a Predictive Model to Evaluate the Risk of Bone Metastasis in Kidney Cancer

Background

Bone is a common target of metastasis in kidney cancer, and accurately predicting the risk of bone metastases (BMs) facilitates risk stratification and precision medicine in kidney cancer.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with kidney cancer were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to comprise the training group from 2010 to 2017, and the validation group was drawn from our academic medical center. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses explored the statistical relationships between the included variables and BM. Statistically significant risk factors were applied to develop a nomogram. Calibration plots, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, probability density functions (PDF), and clinical utility curves (CUC) were used to verify the predictive performance. Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves demonstrated survival differences between two subgroups of kidney cancer with and without BMs. A convenient web calculator was provided for users via “shiny” package.

Results

A total of 43,503 patients were recruited in this study, of which 42,650 were training group cases and 853 validation group cases. The variables included in the nomogram were sex, pathological grade, T-stage, N-stage, sequence number, brain metastases, liver metastasis, pulmonary metastasis, histological type, primary site, and laterality. The calibration plots confirmed good agreement between the prediction model and the actual results. The area under the curve (AUC) values in the training and validation groups were 0.952 (95% CI, 0.950–0.954) and 0.836 (95% CI, 0.809–0.860), respectively. Based on CUC, we recommend a threshold probability of 5% to guide the diagnosis of BMs.

Conclusions

The comprehensive predictive tool consisting of nomogram and web calculator contributes to risk stratification which helped clinicians identify high-risk cases and provide personalized treatment options.

Tumors of the Hand and the Wrist

Most tumors of the hand and the wrist are benign; however, malignant conditions can mimic benign tumors and must be worked up accordingly. Advanced imaging should be followed by biopsy before definitive treatment of tumors of unknown diagnosis. The most common soft-tissue masses in the hand and the wrist are ganglion cysts, whereas the most common bone tumors are enchondromas.

Trapezial Acrometastasis as the First Presentation of Occult Lung Cancer: A Case Report

CASE

Acrometastasis is extremely rare, accounting for 0.1% of all skeletal metastases. Metastases to the carpus are rarer still. This condition can be the first manifestation of an occult malignancy and generally indicates advanced disease. We present the case of a 53-year-old woman with acrometastasis of squamous cell lung cancer to the trapezium as the initial presentation of her malignancy.

CONCLUSION

The presentation of acrometastasis can mimic infectious or inflammatory processes, leading to an erroneous diagnosis. Although exceptionally uncommon, it is important to consider as a differential diagnosis for a destructive hand lesion.

What Is the Value of Undergoing Surgery for Spinal Metastases at Dedicated Cancer Centers?

BACKGROUND

The Alliance of Dedicated Cancer Centers is an organization of 11 leading cancer institutions and affiliated hospitals that are exempt from the Medicare prospective system hospital reimbursement policies. Because of their focus on cancer care and participation in innovative cancer treatment methods and protocols, these hospitals are reimbursed based on their actual billings. The perceived lack of incentive to meet a predetermined target price and reduce costs has spurred criticism of the value of cancer care at these institutions. The rationale of our study was to better understand whether dedicated cancer centers (DCCs) deliver high-value care for patients undergoing surgical treatment of spinal metastases.

QUESTION/PURPOSE

Is there a difference in 90-day complications and reimbursements between patients undergoing surgical treatment (decompression or fusion) for spinal metastases at DCCs and those treated at nonDCC hospitals?

METHODS

The 2005 to 2014 100% Medicare Standard Analytical Files database was queried using ICD-9 procedure and diagnosis codes to identify patients undergoing decompression (03.0, 03.09, and 03.4) and/or fusion (81.0X) for spinal metastases (198.5). The database does not allow us to exclude the possibility that some patients were treated with fusion for stabilization of the spine without decompression, although this is likely an uncommon event. Patients undergoing vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty for metastatic disease were excluded. The Medicare hospital provider identification numbers were used to identify the 11 DCCs. The study cohort was categorized into two groups: DCCs and nonDCCs. Although spinal metastases are known to occur among nonMedicare and younger patients, the payment policies of these DCCs are only applicable to Medicare beneficiaries. Therefore, to keep the study objective relevant to current policy and value-based discussions, we performed the analysis using the Medicare dataset. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 17,776 patients in the study, 6% (1138 of 17,776) of whom underwent surgery at one of the 11 DCCs. Compared with the nonDCC group, DCC group hospitals operated on a younger patient population and on more patients with primary renal cancers. In addition, DCCs were more likely to be high-volume facilities with National Cancer Institute designations and have a voluntary or government ownership model. Patients undergoing surgery for spinal metastases at DCCs were more likely to have spinal decompression with fusion than those at nonDCCs (40% versus 22%; p < 0.001) and had a greater length and extent of fusion (at least four levels of fusion; 34% versus 29%; p = 0.001). Patients at DCCs were also more likely than those at nonDCCs to receive postoperative adjunct treatments such as radiation (16% versus 13.5%; p = 0.008) and chemotherapy (17% versus 9%; p < 0.001), although this difference is small and we do not know if this meets a minimum clinically important difference. To account for differences in patients presenting at both types of facilities, multivariate logistic regression mixed-model analyses were used to compare rates of 90-day complications and 90-day mortality between DCC and nonDCC hospitals. Controls were implemented for baseline clinical characteristics, procedural factors, and hospital-level factors (such as random effects). Generalized linear regression mixed-modeling was used to evaluate differences in total 90-day reimbursements between DCCs and nonDCCs.

RESULTS

After adjusting for differences in baseline demographics, procedural factors, and hospital-level factors, patients undergoing surgery at DCCs had lower odds of experiencing sepsis (6.5% versus 10%; odds ratio 0.54 [95% confidence interval 0.40 to 0.74]; p < 0.001), urinary tract infections (19% versus 28%; OR 0.61 [95% CI 0.50 to 0.74]; p < 0.001), renal complications (9% versus 13%; OR 0.55 [95% CI 0.42 to 0.72]; p < 0.001), emergency department visits (27% versus 31%; OR 0.78 [95% CI 0.64 to 0.93]; p = 0.01), and mortality (39% versus 49%; OR 0.75 [95% CI 0.62 to 0.89]; p = 0.001) within 90 days of the procedure compared with patients treated at nonDCCs. Undergoing surgery at a DCC (90-day reimbursement of USD 54,588 ± USD 42,914) compared with nonDCCs (90-day reimbursement of USD 49,454 ± USD 38,174) was also associated with reduced 90-day risk-adjusted reimbursements (USD -14,802 [standard error 1362] ; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Based on our findings, it appears that DCCs offer high-value care, as evidenced by lower complication rates and reduced reimbursements after surgery for spinal metastases. A better understanding of the processes of care adopted at these institutions is needed so that additional cancer centers may also be able to deliver similar care for patients with metastatic spine disease.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Clinical outcomes and prognostic factors following the surgical resection of renal cell carcinoma spinal metastases

The efficacy of surgical resection in metastatic renal cell carcinoma is an active and important research field in the postcytokine era. Bone metastases, especially in the spine, compromise patient performance status. Metastasectomy is indicated, if feasible, because it helps to achieve the best clinical outcomes possible compared with other treatments. This study examined the postoperative survival and prognostic factors in patients who underwent metastasectomy of spinal lesions. The retrospective study included 65 consecutive patients with metastatic renal cell carcinomas who were operated on by spinal metastasectomy between 1995 and 2017 at our institution. The cancer‐specific survival times from the first spinal metastasectomy to death or the last follow‐up (≥3 years) were determined using Kaplan‐Meier analysis. Potential factors influencing survival were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard models. Planned surgical resection of all the spine tumors was achieved in all patients. Of these, 38 had complete metastasectomy of all visible metastases, including extraspinal lesions. In all patients, the estimated median cancer‐specific survival time was 100 months. The 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year cancer‐specific survival rates were 77%, 62%, and 48%, respectively. The survival times after spinal metastasectomy were similar in both cytokine and postcytokine groups. In multivariate analyses, postoperative disability, the coexistence of liver metastases, multiple spinal metastases, and incomplete metastasectomy were significant risk factors associated with short‐term survival. Complete metastasectomy, including extraspinal metastases, was associated with improved cancer‐specific survival. Proper patient selection and complete metastasectomy provide a better prognosis in metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients.

Percutaneous thermal ablation alone or in combination with cementoplasty for renal cell carcinoma osseous metastases: Pain palliation and local tumour control

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of minimally invasive percutaneous thermal ablation alone or in combination with cementoplasty for pain palliation and local tumour control of renal cell carcinoma osseous metastases.

METHODS

Imaging-guided thermal ablation was performed in 59 renal cell carcinoma osseous metastatic tumours in 23 patients (concomitant cementoplasty in 43 tumours) selected following multidisciplinary consultations to achieve local tumour control and pain palliation (75%, 44/59) or pain palliation alone (25%, 15/59) in this retrospective study. Tumour characteristics, procedural details and complications were documented. Pain palliation was assessed using pre- and post-procedural Numeric Rating Scale scores at 1-week, 1-month, 3-month and 6-month time intervals. Pre- and post-procedural cross-sectional imaging was reviewed to assess local tumour control rates at 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month post-treatment time intervals.

RESULTS

All procedures were technically successful and performed as pre-operatively planned. The median pre- and post-procedural Numeric Rating Scale scores were 8.0 and 3.0 (at all time intervals), respectively (P < 0.001). Local tumour control rates were 100% (40/40), 100% (36/36) and 85% (28/33) at ≥3 months, ≥6 months and ≥12 months post-procedural time intervals, respectively. There was 1 minor complication (1.7%, 1/59).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous thermal ablation alone or in combination with cementoplasty is safe and effective for pain palliation and local tumour control of renal cell carcinoma osseous metastases.

Metastasectomy and Targeted Therapy for Patients With Spinal Metastases of Renal Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is an aggressive malignant disease that frequently metastasizes to the spine. The main purpose of our study is to evaluate the influence of surgery as well as targeted therapy on the survival of patients with RCC metastases of the spine.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study. We identified 100 patients with spinal RCC metastases who were retrospectively reviewed for preoperative conditions, treatment, and survival. Metastasectomy was performed in 39 cases, and 61 patients underwent decompression procedures with stabilization. Only 26 patients had adjuvant targeted therapy (7 with metastasectomy, 19 with palliative decompression). Pain, neurological status, survival time (from operation to death or last follow up), and local progression-free survival were evaluated.

RESULTS

Neurological function recovery and reported significant pain relief were observed. There was no significant difference in overall survival for the patients with metastasectomy and palliative decompression (P = .750). Metastasectomy provided better local control of disease compared with decompression (P = .043). There was a statistically significant difference in overall survival for the patients who received targeted therapy (P = .012).

CONCLUSIONS

Metastasectomy is effective for local control of tumors. Targeted therapy can potentially prolong overall survival for patients with spinal RCC metastases.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our findings suggest that spinal metastasectomy is useful for local control of tumor growth but not for live expectancy. Effective systemic therapy is key role in stopping of disease progression.

Five-year outcomes of major lower extremity amputation and two-staged admission pathway for new transtibial amputees in a local hospital

Background:

Transtibial amputation and subsequent prosthetic fitting can cause prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS). Recently, a two-staged admission pathway for new transtibial amputees was introduced in a local hospital to shorten hospital LOS.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was performed to review the 5-year outcomes of major lower extremity amputation in a local hospital and to compare the difference in LOS and functional outcomes between traditional (group 1) and two-staged (group 2) admission pathways for new transtibial amputees.

Results:

The fitting rate was 55% in transtibial amputees, 14% in transfemoral amputees, and only 3.7% in dementia patients. For new transtibial amputees, the mean postoperative LOS was significantly reduced by 32.8 days in group 2. Besides, more patients in group 2 were able to walk without aid.

Conclusion:

LOS for new transtibial amputees can be greatly reduced by the two-staged admission pathway to minimize hospital operational cost.

Renal cell carcinoma revealed by sternal tumefaction: A rare case report and literature review

Usual location of metastasis are in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) the lung, liver, bone, adrenal and brain. Here we report on an unusual case of a 76-year-old male with a solitary sternal metastasis as an initial presentation of clear-cell RCC.

The management of metastatic kidney cancer has been disrupted over the last decade by the emergence of new treatments and the progress of surgery and ablative techniques.

the Carmena study suggests that sunitinib alone is not inferior to the NCR followed by sunitinib, the patient has therefore been transferred to oncology for medical treatment (targeted therapy).

Renal Cell Carcinoma: the Oncologist Asks, Can PSMA PET/CT Answer?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To critically review the potential clinical applications of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) radioactive ligands in renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

RECENT FINDINGS

Radioactive probes targeting PSMA hold promise in several malignancies in addition to prostate cancer, owing to the expression of PSMA by tumor neovasculature. The majority of clear cell RCCs (ccRCC), the most malignant RCC subtype, express PSMA on tumor-associated neovasculature. The endothelium of less aggressive RCC subtypes is PSMA positive in a lower, but still significant percentage of cases. PSMA might therefore represent an interesting theragnostic target in RCC. The preliminary data available suggest a potential role for PSMA-targeting radiopharmaceuticals in complementing conventional imaging for staging ccRCC patients at risk of nodal involvement and oligometastatic disease. Additional applications of PSMA imaging may be the selection and the response assessment of patients receiving anti-angiogenic treatments. The effectiveness of PSMA-targeting radionuclide therapy should also be investigated.

Prognosis of renal cell carcinoma with bone metastases: Experience from a large cancer centre

BACKGROUND

Bone metastases (BMs) are associated with significant morbidity and shorter survival in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Our purpose was to identify prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) in RCC patients with BMs.

METHODS

Data from patients with BMs from RCC treated at Gustave Roussy between April 1992 and March 2016 were retrospectively collected. Age, sex, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group-Performance Status, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) risk groups, histology, number and site of bone lesions, concomitant metastases (presence and sites), therapy for BMs (radical resection or palliative surgery, radiotherapy and other local and systemic treatments) and time from diagnosis to BMs were analysed. Synchronous solitary bone metastasis (SSBM) was defined as a single BM without concomitant visceral lesions at the initial diagnosis of RCC. OS was calculated from the date of BMs diagnosis to death or last follow-up using Kaplan-Maier method and modelled with Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

From 1750 patients with diagnosis of RCC followed at Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 300 patients with BMs were identified. Median time from diagnosis to BMs was 32.4 months (range 0-324 months). In 64 patients (21%), bone was the only metastatic site, and 22 patients (7%) had an SSBM and 236 patients (79%) had concomitant metastases in other sites. Median OS was 23.2 months (95% confidence interval 19.9-26.2). SSBM patients had better OS than those with concomitant metastases (40 vs 20 months; P < 0.001). At multivariate analysis, concomitant metastases remained predictor of poor prognosis, while MSKCC risk group, radical resection and SSBM were predictors of better OS.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that MSKCC score, numbers of BMs and radical resection are important prognostic factors for RCC patients with BMs. Additionally, in the presence of solitary BM without concomitant metastases at the initial diagnosis of RCC, bone surgery should be considered to achieve local tumour control and likely increase OS.

Kidney and Thyroid Cancer-Specific Treatment Algorithm for Spinal Metastases: A Validation Study

BACKGROUND

Spinal metastases (SMs) from kidney and thyroid cancers have several common features suggesting that excisional surgery for isolated and removable SMs can improve survival. We propose a simple treatment algorithm for SMs from these cancers. Our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the algorithm.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the data of 69 consecutive patients (48 with kidney and 21 with thyroid cancers) who underwent excisional surgery for SMs between 1995 and 2014. The patients were retrospectively classified into an indicated group for excisional SM surgery and a nonindicated group according to our algorithm, and the Tokuhashi and Tomita scoring systems. Patients in the indicated group were expected to survive ≥2 years postoperatively, whereas those in the nonindicated group were not. The positive predictive value and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated using the predicted versus actual survival times of the patients. Survival was defined as the time from the first excisional surgery for the spinal lesion to death or the last follow-up of ≥2 years.

RESULTS

For patients with kidney cancer, the 2- and 5-year survival rates were 85.4% and 60.4%, respectively. For patients with thyroid cancer, the 2- and 5-year survival rates were 100% and 83.8%, respectively. Our algorithm had a compatible high positive predictive value (95.5%) and NPV (100%), whereas the Tokuhashi and Tomita scoring systems had low NPVs of 15.8% and 13.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our treatment algorithm of SMs from kidney and thyroid cancers is useful for determining an adequate treatment including excisional surgery.

Solitary Metastatic Lesion of the Tibia from Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma: A Case Report of Segmental Skeletal Resection, Intercalary Allograft Over Reamed Nailing and Soleus Flap Interposition

BACKGROUND Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common malignancy of the kidney, with clear cell (ccRCC) subtype identified in 85% of the cases; one-third of these patients experience synchronous metastatic disease, while 20-30% of the remaining patients develop metachronous metastatic RCC. The axial skeleton (pelvis and sacrum) is the second most common location (following the lungs), with a reported incidence of 35%. Diaphysis of the long bones is rarely involved, with the tibia being an even rarer site of metastasis. CASE REPORT We present a rare case of solitary diaphyseal tibial metachronous metastasis from RCC in a 54-year-old male that appeared 8 years after nephrectomy without any previous evidence of disease. He underwent segmental skeletal resection, intercalary allograft over locked reamed intramedullary nailing, and soleus flap coverage. Thirty months later he presented with hardware failure and nonunion at the distal part of the allograft site. He was successfully treated with exchange nailing, fibular osteotomy, and bone grafting, showing excellent clinical and radiological outcome without any evidence of recurrence 5 years after the index operation. CONCLUSIONS Wide resection and biological reconstruction using intramedullary nailing and incorporated allograft is a good option for metachronous solitary RCC tumors.

Treatment of pathologic fractures of the proximal femur

BACKGROUND

Metastatic lesions to the proximal femur occur frequently and require special consideration due to the high risk of pathologic fractures. Type of surgery might influence patient survival considering the growing concept of oligometastases. In fact, the use of modular tumor megaprosthesis is increasing in the last decades compared to intramedullary nailing. Aim of this study was to evaluate oncological and functional results of treatment in patients with pathologic or impending fracture of the proximal femur, with patient survival being the primary, complications the secondary, and functional results the tertiary endpoint.

METHODS

Between 2016 and 2017, 40 patients with pathologic fracture (29 cases) or impending fracture according to the Mirels score (11 cases) of the proximal femur, were treated in our Institute and prospectively collected. There were 29 females (72.5%) and 11 males (27.5%), with a mean age at diagnosis of the metastasis of 63.6 years (range 35 to 92 years). Patients were treated due to bone metastases (commonly develop from breast cancer) or hematologic malignancies. Considering number of lesions, 17 patients had less than three bone metastases. Surgical procedures included intramedullary nailing (7 patients), conventional endoprosthesis (4 patients) and modular endoprosthetic replacement (29 patients). Adjuvant treatments included chemotherapy (13 cases), radiation therapy (8 cases) or both (15 cases), and selective arterial embolization (6 pre-op). Oncological results were evaluated considering the survival of patients. Functional results were assessed as pain intensity in VAS score and MSTS score.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up of patients was 10.2 months (range 6-26.3 years). At the latest evaluation, 23 patients were alive with disease, 3 patients were alive without evidence of disease and 14 patients were dead with disease. There was a significant better survival in patients treated with PFR compared to IMN and EPR groups (p = 0.0080). No differences in term of survival were found comparing impending vs actual pathological fracture and oligo vs multiple metastases. After surgery, all patients experienced improvement in quality of life resulting from reduction in pain. Mean MSTS score was 22.4. The overall complications rate was 22.5%. The most frequent complication was dislocation followed by wound dehiscence and deep infections.

CONCLUSION

Modular tumour prosthesis for proximal femur replacement provides good functional outcome, relative low incidence of complications and higher life quality in the medium term. Oncologic results were influenced by type of surgery, biased by the correct indications for resection and nailing. Preoperative general health condition, life expectancy and ambulatory capacity may influence treatment strategy. With the numbers available, the patients with actual pathologic or impending fracture of the proximal femur treated with resection had a significantly higher survival, especially those with metastases from renal carcinoma or multiple myeloma.

Is Total Femur Replacement a Reliable Treatment Option for Patients With Metastatic Carcinoma of the Femur?

BACKGROUND

The majority of metastatic bone lesions to the femoral bone can be treated without surgery or with minimally invasive intramedullary nailing. In rare patients with extensive metastatic disease to the femur, total femur replacement may be the only surgical alternative to amputation; however, little is known about this approach.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

In a highly selected small group of patients with metastatic carcinoma of the femur, we asked: (1) What was the patient survivorship after this treatment? (2) What was the implant survivorship free from all-cause revision and amputation, and what complications were associated with this treatment? (3) What functional outcomes were achieved by patients after total femur replacement for this indication?

METHODS

Eleven patients (three men, eight women) with a mean age of 64 years (range, 41-78 years) received total femur replacements between 1986 and 2016; none were lost to followup. The most common primary disease was breast cancer. In general, during this period, our indications for this procedure were extensive metastatic disease precluding internal fixation or isolated proximal or distal femur replacement, and an anticipated lifespan exceeding 6 months. Our contraindication for this procedure during this time was expected lifespan less than 6 months. Patient survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis; implant survival free from revision surgery and amputation were assessed by competing risk analysis. Function was determined preoperatively and 6 to 12 weeks postoperatively with the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score normalized to a 100-point scale, with higher scores representing better function from a longitudinally maintained institutional database.

RESULTS

Eleven patients died at a median of 5 months (range, 1-31 months) after surgery. One-year revision-free and limb survival were 82% (95% CI, 51%-98%) and 91% (95% CI, 61%-99%), respectively. Reasons for reoperation were hip dislocation, infection and local recurrence in one patient each. The latter two complications resulted in amputation in two patients. The median MSTS score was 32 (range, 13-57).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite attempts to select patients who might have anticipated greater life expectancy, eight of 11 patients died by 6 months after surgery, and an additional two patients had undergone an amputation at 8 and at 17 months postoperatively. Most patients undergoing total femur replacement in this series did not recover from the procedure by the time they died, despite our best attempts to perform the procedure in patients whom we thought would live at least 6 months. Based on this, we believe that most patients with extensive metastatic disease to the femur should be offered palliative care, rather than major reconstruction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study.

Role of RPLND and Metastasectomy in the Management of Oligometastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma

Although lymphadenectomy is currently accepted as most accurate and reliable staging procedure for lymph node metastases, its therapeutic benefit in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) still remains controversial. Although the new, targeted therapy paradigms have changed the treatment of patients with advanced RCC and offer prolonged survival, cure is extremely uncommon in the absence of surgical resections. In this paper, the current role of metastasectomy is reviewed. Review the available literature concerning the role of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and metastasectomy in outcome of oligometastatic RCC. A PubMed search was conducted to identify original articles, review articles, and editorials addressing the role of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and metastasectomy in outcome of oligometastatic RCC. Keywords included renal tumors, renal cell cancer, kidney cancer, lymphadenectomy, metastasectomy, and oligometastases. While there is no randomized study available, recent large observational studies have better defined the prognosis of patients with metastatic RCC with or without metastasectomy and RPLND. To date, the available evidence suggests that RPLND and metastasectomy may be beneficial when technically feasible in patients with locally advanced (unfavorable clinical and pathologic characteristics) and oligometastatic disease. A proportion of patients will achieve long-term survival with aggressive surgical resection.

Sternal resection of a solitary renal cell carcinoma metastasis: a case report and a literature review

BACKGROUND

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) may be metastatic, although solitary sternal metastasis of RCC is a rare medical condition. Here we report an unusual case of a 63-year-old male with a solitary sternal metastasis as an initial presentation of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 63-year-old male presented with a small sternal mass. Chest computer tomography (CT) and a biopsy from the sternal tumour were performed. Histopathological examination revealed the diagnosis of renal clear cell carcinoma metastasis to the sternal bone. On the basis of a subsequently performed abdominal CT the patient was confirmed with a suspicion of a left renal lower pole tumour. Treatment with sunitinib was initiated. Due to the limited response and a growing sternal mass, the patient was admitted to the National Cancer Institute after two cycles of sunitinib therapy. Open left partial nephrectomy was performed followed by the resection of the sternal metastasis two months later. The chest wall was reconstructed with polypropylene mesh combined with transversal rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap.

RESULTS

The postoperative course after the partial nephrectomy was uneventful. The postoperative course of metastasectomy complicated with the right pneumothorax which was successfully treated by insertion of a chest tube. Bleeding from the upper digestive tract also occurred on the seventh postoperative day but was successfully controlled by haemostasis with three 20 ml endoscopic injections of 1:10,000 solution of epinephrine. The patient had been followed up after the surgery for 30 months with biannual chest and abdominal CT scans that showed neither local nor distant recurrence of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Radical surgical treatment of a solitary renal clear cell carcinoma metastasis may offer the best cancer-specific outcomes and improve the quality of life in some patients.

Cryoablation of Bone Metastases from Renal Cell Carcinoma for Local Tumor Control

BACKGROUND

Patients with bone metastases from renal cell carcinoma often are not surgical candidates and have a poor prognosis. There are limited data on the use of cryoablation as a locoregional therapy for bone metastases. Our objective was to assess the local tumor-control rate following cryoablation of bone metastases in the setting of renal cell carcinoma.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma who underwent cryoablation for bone metastases between 2007 and 2014. We excluded patients if the intent of treatment was for pain palliation only, if cryoablation was performed without an attempt for complete tumor control (cytoreduction), or if the patient had no further follow-up beyond the cryoablation procedure. We recorded patient demographics, procedural variables, and complications. Cross-sectional imaging and clinical follow-up were reviewed to determine disease recurrence. The median overall survival and recurrence-free survival were determined using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Forty patients (30 male and 10 female) with 50 bone metastases were included for analysis. The mean patient age was 62 years (range, 47 to 82 years). The median follow-up was 35 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 22.7 to 74.4 months). Twenty-five (62.5%) of the 40 patients had oligometastatic disease, defined as ≤5 metastases at the time of ablation. The mean tumor size was 3.4 ± 1.5 cm. Metastases in the pelvic region represented 68% of the treated tumors (34 of 50). The overall local tumor-control rate per lesion was 82% (41 of 50). Patients with oligometastatic disease experienced better local tumor control (96% [24 of 25]) compared with patients who had >5 metastases (53.3% [8 of 15]) (p = 0.001). The local tumor-control rate was better for lesions for which a larger mean difference between maximum ice-ball diameter and maximum lesion diameter was achieved (2.2 ± 0.9 cm for those without recurrence versus 1.35 ± 1.2 cm for those with recurrence; p = 0.005). There were 3 grade-3 complications and 1 grade-4 complication.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryoablation can be effective for achieving local oncologic control in bone metastases from renal cell carcinoma and may represent a valuable alternative to surgical metastasectomy in select patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Bone metastases of the hand

Introduction The aim of this study was to identify patients with malignant hand lesions, establish the proportions of those that were metastases and review their clinical course. Methods A retrospective search of a prospective tumour database was carried out to identify all patients treated at our unit with hand metastases. Patient demographics were recorded including site of primary malignancy, region of the hand involved, management of their metastasis and clinical outcome. Results Overall, 149 patients were identified with a malignant tumour of the hand. Ten had a metastatic lesion. There were 3 women and 7 men with a median age of 68 years (range: 28-91 years) at presentation. All presented with non-mechanical hand pain while four had pain and swelling. The median interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was eight weeks. The minimum follow-up duration was four months. Three patients had no history of malignancy. Of the remaining seven patients, three had other known metastases. Six patients underwent solely palliative radiotherapy. Three patients had amputation. One was treated with surgical excision and radiotherapy. One had an amputation and axillary node clearance. All but one patient had died by the time of the latest follow-up appointment. The median time to death following identification of acrometastases was 18 months. Sites of primary disease were skin (n=4), lung (n=3), kidney (n=2) and neuroendocrine system (n=1). The thumb was the most commonly affected location. Conclusions This study demonstrates that patients presenting with non-mechanical hand pain should be considered to have a malignant process until proved otherwise, particularly in patients with thumb symptoms and a history of prior malignancy.

Skeletal Metastasis as Detected by 18F-FDG PET with Negative CT of the PET/CT: Frequency and Impact on Cancer Staging and/or Management

OBJECTIVES

The aim of our study is to assess the frequency of detection of PET-positive computed tomography (CT)-negative skeletal metastases (SM) and determine the impact of such detection on staging and/or management in patients who had FDG PET/CT as part of the cancer work-up.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 2000 18F-FDG PET/CT scans of known cancer patients. A log was kept to record cases of suspected SM with or without bone changes from the low-dose non-contrast CT. The presence or absence of SM was evaluated based on available pathological and clinical data. The impact of detection of such lesions on cancer staging and/or management was evaluated by a board certified oncologist.

RESULTS

Of the 2000 cases, 18F-FDG PET/CT suggested SM in 146/2000 (7.3%). Of those 146 cases, 105 (72%) were positive on both PET and CT. The remaining 41 (28%) had PET-positive CT-negative bone lesions. SM was confirmed in 36/41 (88%) PET-positive/CT-negative cases. This was based on biopsy, imaging, or clinical follow-up. The detection of PET-positive CT-negative SM did not change staging or management in 7/36 (19.4%). However, staging and/or management was affected in 29/36 (80.6%).

CONCLUSION

SM is not uncommon in 18F-FDG PET/CT, as it accounts for 146/2000 (7.3%) of cases. PET demonstrated FDG-avid SM without a CT abnormality in at least 36/146 (25%). Patients staging and/or management changed in 29/36 (80.5%). We concluded that 18F-FDG PET is sensitive in the detection of SM with significant impact on staging and/or management.

Trochanter/calcar preserving reconstruction in tumors involving the femoral head and neck

AIM: To evaluate the results of hip reconstruction with extensive excision for tumor confined to the femoral head and neck.

METHODS: We designed a resection preserving the greater trochanter and lower portion of calcar femorale, and utilized conventional total hip prosthesis. We retrospectively reviewed 7 patients, who underwent a wide resection and reconstruction using conventional hip prosthesis. There were 3 men and 4 women and their mean age was 42.5 years (22 to 65 years). The histologic diagnosis of each patient was low-grade osteosarcoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, liposclerosing myxofibroma, intraosseous lipoma, chondroblastoma, giant cell tumor and focal intramedullary fibrosis.

RESULTS: One patient with lymphoma died due to disease dissemination at 10 mo postoperatively and the remaining 6 patients were followed for a mean of 4.7 years (3 to 6 years). All patients were able to return to their daily activities and no patient had local recurrence. No radiographic signs of loosening, wear, and osteolysis were found at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSION: Trochanter/calcar-preserving resection of the proximal femur and reconstruction using conventional total hip prosthesis, is a satisfactory treatment for tumors confined to the femoral head and neck.

Surgery of non-spinal skeletal metastases in renal cell carcinoma: No effect of preoperative embolization?

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Surgery for metastases of renal cell carcinoma has increased in the last decade. It carries a risk of massive blood loss, as tumors are hypervascular and the surgery is often extensive. Preoperative embolization is believed to facilitate surgery. We evaluated the effect of preoperative embolization and resection margin on intraoperative blood loss, operation time, and survival in non-spinal skeletal metastases of renal cell carcinoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study involved 144 patients, 56 of which were treated preoperatively with embolization. The primary outcome was intraoperative blood loss. We also identified factors affecting operating time and survival.

RESULTS

We did not find statistically significant effects on intraoperative blood loss of preoperative embolization of skeletal non-spinal metastases. Pelvic localization and large tumor size increased intraoperative blood loss. Marginal resection compared to intralesional resection, nephrectomy, level of hemoglobin, and solitary metastases were associated with better survival.

INTERPRETATION

Tumor size, but not embolization, was an independent factor for intraoperative blood loss. Marginal resection rather than intralesional resection should be the gold standard treatment for skeletal metastases in non-spinal renal cell carcinoma, especially in the case of a solitary lesion, as this improved the overall survival.

Clinical outcome for patients of solitary bone only metastasis

BACKGROUND

Solitary bone only metastasis (SBOM) is a rare condition in which metastasis is limited to a single skeletal lesion originating from a previously treated or controllable primary lesion. The study objective was to evaluate the clinical features and survival regarding this rare condition and to clarify its treatment strategy.

METHODS

A total of 1453 patients with bone metastasis registered in our hospital database were enrolled. To assess the primary and/or metastatic lesion we used plain X-ray images, CT, MRI and FDG-PET scans as well as bone scans.

RESULTS

Among the patients, only 27 (1.8%) had SBOM. The primary cancers responsible for SBOM were lung in seven patients, breast in five, kidney in four, prostate in two, uterus in two and other types in seven. Treatment of SBOM involved resection in four patients, radiotherapy only in 17, radiotherapy in combination with zoledronate in six and chemotherapy with zoledronate in one. Local recurrence did not develop in the four cases treated with resection. However, in-field recurrence was found in 4 of 22 (18%) patients who underwent radiotherapy. All three patients who received >40 Gy did not develop in-field recurrence. The overall and event free survival rates at 5 years were 63% and 41%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Solitary bone only metastasis should be treated with wide resection or long-course radiotherapy at doses 40-50 Gy to achieve long lasting local tumor control.

18F-Fluoride PET/CT for detection of bone metastasis in patients with renal cell carcinoma: a pilot study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of F-fluoride PET/computed tomography (CT) in the detection of bone metastasis in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and compare the results with fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (F-FDG) PET/CT and technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate bone scintigraphy (BS) when available.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data of 36 patients (mean age: 52.5±14.1 years; male/female: 27/9) with RCC who prospectively underwent F-fluoride PET/CT were analyzed. PET/CT images were analyzed by two nuclear medicine physicians in consensus, visually and semiquantitatively [maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax)]. Results of F-fluoride PET/CT were compared with those of F-FDG PET/CT (n=16) and BS (n=22). Histopathology or clinical or imaging follow-up (minimum 6 months) were used as the reference standard.

RESULTS

Overall, F-fluoride PET/CT showed a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 94.4%, positive predictive value of 94.7%, negative predictive value of 100%, and accuracy of 97.2%. It demonstrated a total of 134 skeletal lesions, of which 101 were characterized as metastasis and 33 as benign. Corresponding CT changes were seen for 129/134 lesions. The mean SUVmax of the lesions was 30.3±48.4. F-Fluoride PET/CT and F-FDG PET/CT showed similar accuracy for visualization of bone metastasis (93.7 vs. 100%; P=0.993). However, F-FDG PET/CT additionally demonstrated extraskeletal metastasis in 6/16 patients. No significant difference was seen between the accuracies of BS and F-fluoride PET/CT for visualization of bone metastasis (93.7 vs. 100%; P=0.115), but the former showed significantly more skeletal lesions (91 vs. 44; P<0.0001). In 4/22 patients (18%) with negative BS, F-fluoride PET/CT demonstrated skeletal metastasis.

CONCLUSION

F-Fluoride PET/CT shows high diagnostic accuracy for the detection of bone metastasis in patients with RCC. It shows comparable results to F-FDG PET/CT and detects more skeletal lesions compared to BS.

Extracranial oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma: current management and future directions

The term 'oligometastases' was formulated to describe an intermediate state between widespread metastases and locally confined disease. The standard of care in metastatic renal cell carcinoma is systemic therapy; however, in patients with solitary or limited metastases, aggressive local therapies may potentially prolong survival. The literature suggests a survival benefit with surgical metastasectomy, with a reported 5-year survival as high as 45% in those who achieve complete resection. More recently, an expanding body of evidence supports the role of stereotactic ablative body radiation therapy for the treatment of oligometastatic renal cell carcinoma and early results demonstrate comparable local control rates with surgery. There is also increasing interest in the abscopal and immunologic effects of localized radiation. With the proliferation of newer targeted agents and immunomodulatory agents, current work is addressing the optimization of patient selection and avenues towards sequencing and combining the various treatment options.

Local treatments for metastases of renal cell carcinoma: a systematic review

Local treatment of metastases such as metastasectomy or radiotherapy remains controversial in the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma. To investigate the benefits and harms of various local treatments, we did a systematic review of all types of comparative studies on local treatment of metastases from renal cell carcinoma in any organ. Interventions included metastasectomy, radiotherapy modalities, and no local treatment. The results suggest that patients treated with complete metastasectomy have better survival and symptom control (including pain relief in bone metastases) than those treated with either incomplete or no metastasectomy. Nevertheless, the available evidence was marred by high risks of bias and confounding across all studies. Although the findings presented here should be interpreted with caution, they and the identified gaps in knowledge should provide guidance for clinicians and researchers, and directions for further research.

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma: radiologic findings and assessment of response to targeted antiangiogenic therapy by using multidetector CT

Recent advances in treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC), such as new molecular therapies that use novel antiangiogenic agents, have led to revision of the most frequently used guideline to evaluate tumor response to therapy: Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST 1.1). Assessment of the response of metastatic RCC to therapy has traditionally been based on changes in target lesion size. However, the mechanism of action of newer antiangiogenic therapies is more cytostatic than cytotoxic, which leads to disease stabilization rather than to tumor regression. This change in tumor response makes RECIST 1.1--a system whose criteria are based exclusively on tumor size--inadequate to discriminate patients with early tumor progression from those with more progression-free disease and prolonged survival. New criteria such as changes in attenuation, morphology, and structure, as seen at contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (CT), are being incorporated into new classifications used to assess response of metastatic RCC to antiangiogenic therapies. The new classifications provide better assessments of tumor response to the new therapies, but they have some limitations. The authors provide a practical review of these systems--the Choi, modified Choi, and Morphology, Attenuation, Size, and Structure (MASS) criteria--by explaining their differences and limitations that may influence the feasibility and reproducibility of these classifications. The authors review the use of multidetector CT in the detection of metastatic RCC and the different appearances and locations of these lesions. They also provide an overview of the new antiangiogenic therapies and their mechanisms of action and a brief introduction to functional imaging techniques. Functional imaging techniques, especially dynamic contrast-enhanced CT, seem promising for assessing response of metastatic RCC to treatment. Nonetheless, further studies are needed before functional imaging can be used in routine clinical practice.

High calcium concentration in bones promotes bone metastasis in renal cell carcinomas expressing calcium-sensing receptor

Background

The prognosis for renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is related to a high rate of metastasis, including 30% of bone metastasis. Characteristic for bone tissue is a high concentration of calcium ions. In this study, we show a promoting effect of an enhanced extracellular calcium concentration on mechanisms of bone metastasis via the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) and its downstream signaling molecules.

Methods

Our analyses were performed using 33 (11/category) matched specimens of normal and tumor tissue and 9 (3/category) primary cells derived from RCC patients of the 3 categories: non-metastasized, metastasized into the lung and metastasized into bones during a five-year period after nephrectomy. Expression of CaSR was determined by RT-PCR, Western blot analyses and flow cytometry, respectively. Cells were treated by calcium and the CaSR inhibitor NPS 2143. Cell migration was measured in a Boyden chamber with calcium (10 μM) as chemotaxin and proliferation by BrdU incorporation. The activity of intracellular signaling mediators was quantified by a phospho-kinase array and Western blot.

Results

The expression of CaSR was highest in specimens and cells of patients with bone metastases. Calcium treatment induced an increased migration (19-fold) and proliferation (2.3-fold) exclusively in RCC cells from patients with bone metastases. The CaSR inhibitor NPS 2143 elucidated the role of CaSR on the calcium-dependent effects. After treatment with calcium, the activity of AKT, PLCγ-1, p38α and JNK was clearly enhanced and PTEN expression was almost completely abolished in bone metastasizing RCC cells.

Conclusions

Our results indicate a promoting effect of extracellular calcium on cell migration and proliferation of bone metastasizing RCC cells via highly expressed CaSR and its downstream signaling pathways. Consequently, CaSR may be regarded as a new prognostic marker predicting RCC bone metastasis.

Patterns of recurrence and surveillance strategies for renal cell carcinoma following surgical resection

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains one of the most lethal urologic malignancies, with up to 40% of patients eventually dying of cancer progression. Despite advances in the diagnosis, staging and treatment of patients with RCC, approximately a third of patients who undergo surgery for clinically localized RCC will suffer a recurrence. Timely identification of recurrences following surgical extirpation is imperative in the treatment of these patients. RCC is known to metastasize through hematogenous routes of spread to distant organ sites and via lymphatic channels to regional lymph nodes. The path of tumor escape is associated with diverse clinical outcomes and a unique tumor biology. A consensus on surveillance regimens for patients following surgical resection of localized disease is lacking. The most extensively used system for providing prognostic information regarding survival and recurrence of disease has historically been the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification system. As a result, most contemporary surveillance protocols have tailored follow-up regimens according to stage-based stratifications. Numerous studies have recently demonstrated that certain clinical and histopathological factors can improve the prediction of tumor recurrence. The incorporation of these prognostic factors into stage-based stratification models should be better than stage alone in attempting to provide a rational approach to identifying treatable recurrences while minimizing unnecessary exams and tests, as well as patient anxiety. Advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis, behavior and molecular biology of RCC have paved the way for developments that may enhance early diagnosis and prognostication, and improve survival for patients. Lastly, molecular markers should, in the future, revolutionize surveillance protocols for RCC by tailoring follow-up to specific molecular classifications.

Fifteen-year survivor of renal cell carcinoma after metastasectomies for multiple bone metastases

This article describes a patient with multiple metastases from renal cell carcinoma who survived and maintained an ambulatory status for 15 years with no recurrence in the spine after en bloc resection of solitary spinal metastasis. Skeletal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma is common, second only to lung metastasis. Surgery plays an important role in the treatment of the metastasis because of its resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. A 60-year-old man had T1N2M1 renal cell carcinoma in the right kidney and synchronous bone metastases at T12 vertebral body and the right humerus. The patient underwent right nephrectomy and en bloc resection of T12 metastasis at the same time using a retroperitoneal approach. He also underwent curetted total excision of metastasis in the right humerus. He underwent radiotherapy and an additional 7 tumor excision surgeries in the right humerus due to repeated tumor recurrences and a pulmonary metastasectomy in the right lung. Thirteen years after initial surgery, he underwent right forequarter amputation due to tumor recurrence and surgical site infection. Fifteen years after initial surgery, he is still alive with no evidence of disease. He has been ambulatory with no tumor recurrence in the spine for 15 years. En bloc resection of solitary spinal metastasis allowed the patient to be ambulatory without recurrence. This contrasts with curetted total excision of bone metastasis in the humerus that resulted in repeated recurrences and surgeries and loss of the arm.

More than 10-year follow-up after total en bloc spondylectomy for spinal tumors

BACKGROUND

There are many reports of en bloc resection for spinal tumors. However, no studies have evaluated the clinical outcomes with follow-up exceeding 10 years after surgery.

METHODS

We reviewed 82 patients who had undergone total en bloc spondylectomy (TES) before January 2002 and identified 29 (19 with primary tumors and 10 with metastatic tumors) who had survived for more than 10 years after surgery. We evaluated the clinical outcomes including patient-based outcomes using questionnaire. The questionnaire included subjective assessment of the results of TES and SF-36.

RESULTS

Overall, 33 % of patients with metastases from kidney cancer and 25 % of those with metastases from thyroid cancer survived for more than 10 years after TES for solitary spinal metastases. Four patients with metastatic tumors had no evidence of disease at the time of survey. There were no tumor recurrences in any of the 23 patients who underwent TES as the primary surgery. No revision surgeries have been required as a result of instrumentation failure in any of the 29 patients. About 90 % of the patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the results of TES. The SF-36 results demonstrated that the both physical and mental health of patients with primary tumors was equivalent to those of healthy individuals, and the mental health of patients with metastatic tumors was almost similar to them.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed the long-term clinical outcomes after TES to be favorable. TES played an important role in the treatment strategy for spinal tumors including metastases.

Massive endoprosthetic replacement for bone metastases resulting from renal cell carcinoma: factors influencing patient survival

BACKGROUND

Surgery remains the main treatment of bone metastases due to renal cell carcinoma (RCC). We reviewed 135 patients treated with resection and endoprosthetic replacement (EPR) and examined clinico-pathological factors predicting survival.

METHODS

Surgical and oncological outcomes were examined using a prospectively maintained database between 1976 and 2012. Survival rates were calculated by Kaplan-Meier method. Multivariate analyses were performed to investigate factors predictive of increased survival.

RESULTS

At diagnosis, 81 patients had synchronous RCC and bone metastases and the remaining developed metachronous metastases after primary treatment for RCC. The majority were solitary tumours (75%) and 77% had ≥ one concurrent visceral metastases. The median age at surgery was 61 years old (IQR 53-69). The median follow-up was 20 months (IQR 10-43) and the overall survival was 72% at one-year. This declined to 45% and 28% at three and five-years, respectively. After adjustments for prognostic factors, there was an increased risk of death in patients with multiple skeletal metastases (HR = 2), ≥one visceral metastases (HR = 3) and local recurrence (HR = 3) (all p ≤ 0.01). Ten patients required revision (7%) and the risk of revision was 4% at one-year and remained low at 8% from two years postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Patients with solitary bone lesions and no visceral metastases should be considered for bone resection and EPR. As survival beyond one-year can be expected in a majority of patients and the risk of further surgery after EPR is low, patients with multiple skeletal metastases and visceral metastases should also be considered.

Surgical intervention of nonvertebral osseous metastasis

BACKGROUND

Nonvertebral osseous metastases can result in pain and disability. The goals of surgical intervention are to reduce pain and to improve function if nonsurgical treatment fails. The indications for proceeding with surgical intervention depend on anatomic location, amount of local destruction, extent of skeletal and visceral disease and, most important, the patient's performance status and life expectancy.

METHODS

This article reviews the evaluation and treatment of metastatic nonvertebral osseous lesions from the perspective of the orthopedic surgeon, based mainly on an assessment of the surgical literature.

RESULTS

This article summarizes the approaches to preoperative evaluation, patient selection, and medical optimization. Guidelines for estimating osseous stability and fracture risk are discussed, and surgical implants and their relation to postoperative outcomes are examined. This review also describes less invasive ablative procedures currently available.

CONCLUSIONS

The surgical management of nonvertebral osseous metastases involves multidisciplinary collaboration. The surgical construct must be a stable, reliable, and durable intervention that is individually tailored and matched to a patient's prognosis and performance status.