Predictors and clinical significance of local recurrence in extremity soft tissue sarcoma

Safety and efficacy of fruquintinib-based therapy in patients with advanced or metastatic sarcoma

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fruquintinib-based therapy as a salvage therapy for patients with advanced or metastatic sarcoma, including soft tissue sarcoma (STS) and bone sarcoma.

METHODS

Patients with advanced or metastatic sarcoma were divided into two groups. One group received fruquintinib monotherapy, while the other received fruquintinib combined therapy. Safety and efficacy of fruquintinib-based therapy were recorded and reviewed retrospectively, including progression-free survival (PFS), overall response rate (ORR), and adverse events (AEs).

RESULTS

Between August 2021 and December 2022, 38 sarcoma patients were retrospectively included. A total of 14 patients received fruquintinib alone (including 6 STS and 8 bone sarcoma), while 24 were treated with fruquintinib combined therapy (including 2 STS and 22 bone sarcoma). The median follow-up was 10.2 months (95% CI, 6.4-11.5). For the entire population, the median PFS was 8.0 months (95% CI, 5.5-13.0). The ORR was 13.1%, while the disease control rate (DCR) was 86.8%. The univariate analysis showed that radiotherapy history (HR, 4.56; 95% CI, 1.70-12.24; p = 0.003), bone sarcoma (HR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.14-0.87; p = 0.024), and treatment method of fruquintinib (HR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.15-0.85; p = 0.021) were significantly associated with PFS. The multivariate analysis showed that patients without radiotherapy history were associated with a better PFS (HR, 3.71; 95% CI: 1.31-10.55; p = 0.014) than patients with radiotherapy history. Patients in combination group reported pneumothorax (8.3%), leukopenia (33.3%), thrombocytopenia (12.5%), diarrhea (4.2%), and anemia (4.2%) as the most frequent grade 3 or higher treatment-emergent AEs (TEAEs), while there was no severe TEAEs occurred in the monotherapy group.

CONCLUSIONS

Fruquintinib-based therapy displayed an optimal tumor control and an acceptable safety profile in patients with advanced or metastatic sarcoma.

Effective Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection of a Huge Esophageal Liposarcoma: A Case Report

This case report presents the successful endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of a well-differentiated esophageal liposarcoma in a 51-year-old male with persistent dysphagia. The cause was initially diagnosed as a 10 cm pedunculated lesion extending from the upper esophageal sphincter to the mid-esophagus. An ESD was chosen over traditional surgery because it is less invasive. The procedure involved a precise submucosal injection and excision with special techniques to manage bleeding from a central vessel. Despite the extraction challenges owing to the size of the lesion, it was successfully removed orally. A histopathological examination of the 8.3×4.2×2.3 cm specimen revealed the characteristic features of a well-differentiated liposarcoma, including MDM2 and CDK4 positivity. The follow-up revealed no recurrence, and active surveillance has been performed since. This report highlights the versatility of ESD in treating significant esophageal tumors and provides evidence for its efficacy as a minimally invasive alternative.

Sarcoma Imaging Surveillance

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a heterogeneous group of solid tumors. There are many histologic subtypes. The prognosis after treatment may be estimated by the analysis of the type of tumor, grade, depth, size at diagnosis, and age of the patient. These type of sarcomas most commonly metastasize to the lungs and may have a relatively high rate of local recurrence, depending on the histologic type and surgical margins. Patients with recurrence have a poorer prognosis. The surveillance of patients with STS is therefore extremely important. This review analyzes the role of MR imaging and US in detecting local recurrence.

Re-excision After Unplanned Excision of Soft Tissue Sarcoma is Associated with High Morbidity and Limited Pathologic Identification of Residual Disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with unplanned excision (UPE) of trunk and extremity soft tissue sarcoma (STS) present a significant management challenge for sarcoma specialists. Oncologic re-resection has been considered standard practice after UPE with positive or uncertain margins. A strategy of active surveillance or "watch and wait" has been suggested as a safe alternative to routine re-excision. In this context, the current study sought to evaluate short-term outcomes and morbidity after re-resection to better understand the risks and benefits of this treatment strategy.

METHODS

A retrospective, single-institution study reviewed patients undergoing oncologic re-resection after UPE of an STS during a 5-year period (2015-2020), excluding those with evidence of gross residual disease. Short-term clinical outcomes were evaluated together with final pathologic findings.

RESULTS

The review identified 67 patients undergoing re-resection after UPE of an STS. Of these 67 patients, 45 (67%) were treated with a combination of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and surgery. Plastic surgery was involved for reconstruction in 49 cases (73%). The rate of wound complications after re-resection was 45 % (n = 30), with 15 % (n = 10) of the patients experiencing a major wound complication. Radiation therapy and plastic surgery involvement were independently associated with wound complications. Notably, 45 patients (67%) had no evidence of residual disease in the re-resection specimen, whereas 13 patients (19 %) had microscopic disease, and 9 patients (13%) had indeterminate pathology.

CONCLUSION

Given the morbidity of re-resection and limited identification of residual disease, treatment plans and discussions with patients should outline the expected pathologic findings and morbidity of surgery.

Giant esophageal liposarcoma with squamous cell carcinoma resected via the cervical approach: a case report

Background

Liposarcoma is one of the most common soft tissue sarcomas, but is extremely rarely found in the esophagus. There have been no reports of esophageal liposarcoma together with superficial carcinoma of the esophagus. Here, we report a patient who underwent complete resection of esophageal liposarcoma with carcinoma via a cervical approach.

Case presentation

A 66-year-old man was diagnosed with an esophageal tumor 11 years ago, but he left it untreated. He presented to our hospital with progressive dysphagia and appetite loss since the previous year. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showed a large pedunculated submucosal tumor (SMT) originating at the esophageal entrance, extending to the gastroesophageal junction. Additionally, there was a superficial carcinoma on the surface of the SMT, 30 cm from the incisor teeth. Three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) showed a giant elongated intraluminal tumor extending downwards from the cervical esophagus. We diagnosed a giant esophageal polyp accompanied by a superficial carcinoma and performed tumor resection via a cervical approach. The excised specimen consisted of a 23.0 × 8.5 cm polypoid mass. The final diagnosis by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination was well-differentiated liposarcoma and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. He was discharged on postoperative day 14 with drastic improvement in his swallowing ability.

Conclusion

We reported an extremely rare case of esophageal liposarcoma together with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma that was successfully resected through a small cervical incision.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Malignant or Aggressive Primary Musculoskeletal Tumor-Staging and Surveillance: 2022 Update

Malignant or aggressive primary musculoskeletal tumors are rare and encompass a wide variety of bone and soft tissue tumors. Given the most common site for metastasis from these primary musculoskeletal tumors is to the lung, chest imaging is integral in both staging and surveillance. Extrapulmonary metastases are rarely encountered with only a few exceptions. Following primary tumor resection, surveillance of the primary tumor site is generally recommended. Local surveillance imaging recommendations differ between primary tumors of bone origin versus soft tissue origin. This document consolidates the current evidence and expert opinion for the imaging staging and surveillance of these tumors into five clinical scenarios. The ACR Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer-reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances in which peer-reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Femoral artery aneurysm developed on intimal sarcoma: Case report

Intimal angiosarcoma is a rare vascular malignancy, and diagnosis is very difficult due to nonspecific symptoms. There are controversial points regarding the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of intimal angiosarcomas. The purpose of this case report was to evaluate the diagnosis and treatment process of a patient diagnosed with femoral artery intimal angiosarcoma. Furthermore, in line with previous studies, it was aimed to illuminate controversial points. A 33-year-old male patient, who had been operated on due to ruptured femoral artery aneurysm, was diagnosed with intimal angiosarcoma with the pathology result. Recurrence was observed during clinical follow-up, and the patient was treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Since there was no response to treatment, the patient underwent aggressive surgery including the surrounding tissues. No recurrence or metastasis was observed in the patient's 10^th month follow-up. Although intimal angiosarcoma is rare, it should be considered in differential diagnosis when femoral artery aneurysm is detected. The most important step in treatment is aggressive surgery, but adding chemo-radiotherapy to the treatment should be considered.

Neoadjuvant irradiation of extremity soft tissue sarcoma with ions (Extrem-ion): study protocol for a randomized phase II pilot trial

BACKGROUND

The standard of care treatment for soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities is a wide resection in combination with pre- or postoperative radiotherapy with high local control rates, sparing patients the necessity of amputation without compromising on overall survival rates. The currently preferred timing of radiotherapy is under debate. Albeit having higher rates of acute wound complications, late side effects like fibrosis, joint stiffness or edema are less frequent in preoperative compared to postoperative radiotherapy. This can be explained in smaller treatment volumes and a lower dose in the preoperative setting. Particles allow better sparing of surrounding tissues at risk, and carbon ions additionally offer biologic advantages and are preferred in less radiosensitive tumors. Hypofractionation allows for a significantly shorter treatment duration.

METHODS

Extrem-ion is a prospective, randomized, monocentric phase II trial. Patients with resectable or marginally resectable, histologically confirmed soft tissue sarcoma of the extremities will be randomized between neoadjuvant proton or neoadjuvant carbon ion radiotherapy in active scanning beam application technique (39 Gy [relative biological effectiveness, RBE] in 13 fractions [5-6 fractions per week] in each arm). The primary objective is the proportion of therapies without wound healing disorder the first 120 days after surgery or discontinuation of treatment for any reason related to the treatment. The secondary endpoints of the study consist of local control, local progression-free survival, disease-free survival, overall survival, and quality of life.

DISCUSSION

The aim of this study is to confirm that hypofractionated, preoperative radiotherapy is safe and feasible. The potential for reduced toxicity by the utilization of particle therapy is the rational of this trial. A subsequent randomized phase III trial will compare the hypofractionated proton and carbon ion irradiation in regards to local control.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04946357 ; Retrospectively registered June 30, 2021.

Outcomes of soft-tissue sarcoma in nonagenarians

AIMS

Current literature suggests that survival outcomes and local recurrence rates of primary soft-tissue sarcoma diagnosed in the very elderly age range, (over 90 years), are comparable with those in patients diagnosed under the age of 75 years. Our aim is to quantify these outcomes with a view to rationalizing management and follow-up for very elderly patients.

METHODS

Retrospective access to our prospectively maintained oncology database yielded a cohort of 48 patients across 23 years with a median follow-up of 12 months (0 to 78) and mean age at diagnosis of 92 years (90 to 99). Overall, 42 of 48 of 48 patients (87.5%) were managed surgically with either limb salvage or amputation.

RESULTS

A lower overall local recurrence rate (LRR) was seen with primary amputations compared with limb salvage (p > 0.050). The LRR was comparable between free (R0), microscopically (R1), and macroscopically positive (R2) resection margins in the limb salvage group. Amputation was also associated with longer survival times (p < 0.050). Overall median survival time was limited to 20 months (0 to 80).

CONCLUSION

Early and aggressive treatment with appropriate oncological surgery confers the lowest LRR and a survival advantage versus conservative treatment in this cohort of patients. With limited survival, follow-up can be rationalized on a patient-by-patient basis using alternative means, such as GP, local oncology, and/or patient-led follow-up. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2022;104-B(1):177-182.

Preoperative stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy with postoperative conventional irradiation of soft tissue sarcomas: Protocol overview with a preliminary safety report

Preoperative radiotherapy in patients with soft tissue sarcomas is characterized by important advantages: high precision of dose delivery, reduction of tumor volume and implantation potential, induction of immunologic response. Postoperative irradiation is associated with a reduced risk of complication, and a comprehensive radiotherapy planning in accordance with the pathologic report. Combination of pre- and postoperative irradiation gives the opportunity to use the best of both methods.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze feasibility and safety of radiotherapy protocol that combined pre- and postoperative radiotherapy in patients with soft tissues sarcomas of extremities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 06.2018 to 01.2021, 23 patients with soft tissue sarcomas of extremities were included in the protocol (NCT04330456) and 14 cases with at least 12 months follow-up were eligible for analysis. Preoperative stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SBRT) was performed as 5 fraction of 7 Gy with dose reduction (5 fractions of 5 Gy) on the margins of the tumor. Postoperative radiotherapy started 5-8 weeks after the surgery and was performed as standard compartmental irradiation in 25 fractions of 2 Gy. Complications were determined according to CTCAE and wound complication scales.

RESULTS

Preoperative SBRT and subsequent radical resection with tumor free surgical margins were performed in all 14 cases. Primary wound closure was mentioned in all patients. Postoperative radiotherapy started 51.8 days (range 33-99 days) days after the surgery. With a relatively short follow-up of 21.5 (13-30) months, we recorded 2 cases (14%) of severe complications (Canadian sarcoma group criteria), and there were no local recurrences.

CONCLUSION

Our preliminary results demonstrate that the combination of preoperative SBRT and postoperative conventional radiotherapy is feasible and does not increase the risk of postoperative complications.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Follow-up Imaging: Strategies to Distinguish Post-treatment Changes from Recurrence

Soft tissue sarcomas encompass multiple entities with differing recurrence rates and follow-up intervals. The detection of recurrences and their differentiation from post-therapeutic changes is therefore complex, with a central role for the clinical radiologist. This article describes approved recommendations. Prerequisite is a precise knowledge of the current clinical management and surgical techniques. We review recurrence rates and treatment modalities. An adequate imaging technique is paramount, and comparison with previous imaging is highly recommended. We describe time-dependent therapy-related complications on magnetic resonance imaging compared with the spectrum of regular post-therapeutic changes. Early complications such as seromas, hematomas, and infections, late complications such as edema and fibrosis, and inflammatory pseudotumors are elucidated. The appearance of recurrences and radiation-associated sarcomas is contrasted with these changes. This systematic approach in follow-up imaging of soft tissue sarcoma patients will facilitate the differentiation of post-therapeutic changes from recurrences.

Low Rates of Chemotherapy Use for Primary, High-Grade Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A National Cancer Database Analysis

BACKGROUND

There is conflicting evidence regarding the role of chemotherapy for high-grade soft tissue sarcoma (STS) in adults. We sought to characterize patterns of chemotherapy use, including multiagent and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, in the United States.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using the National Cancer Database, we identified 19,969 adult patients who underwent surgical resection for primary high-grade STS from 2004 to 2016. Using logistic regression, we examined factors associated with overall, multiagent, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy use.

RESULTS

Chemotherapy was administered to 22% (n=4,377) of the study population. Among patients treated using chemotherapy, 85% received multiagent treatment and 47% received neoadjuvant treatment. On multivariate analysis, factors associated with chemotherapy use included tumor size, depth, histology, and primary site; receipt of radiation treatment; younger age; higher patient income; and academic treatment facility. Factors associated with multiagent chemotherapy use included tumor histology, tumor primary site, and younger age. Factors associated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy use included tumor size, depth, margin status, and primary site; receipt of radiation treatment; higher patient income; academic treatment facility type; and distance to treatment facility. Treatment at a high-volume facility was the only factor associated with overall, multiagent, and neoadjuvant chemotherapy use. No significant temporal trend was seen in overall, multiagent, or neoadjuvant chemotherapy use.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall chemotherapy use was low (22%). The variability in chemotherapy use was driven by clinical, patient, demographic, and facility factors. Among patients treated with chemotherapy, the use of multiagent chemotherapy was high (85%), and nearly half received neoadjuvant therapy. There was a discrepancy in the use of chemotherapy-including neoadjuvant and multiagent chemotherapy-between high- and low-volume treatment centers.

Planned combined onco-plastic (COP) surgical approach improves oncologic outcomes in soft tissue sarcomas

BACKGROUND

Combined modality of radiotherapy and surgery is the standard of treatment of soft tissue sarcomas (STS). The goal of this study was to assess whether a Combined Onco-Plastic (COP) surgical approach in the setting of neo-adjuvant radiotherapy can improve the oncologic outcomes of STS and reduce the rate of wound complications.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all patients with STS treated at a single sarcoma centre (St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne) between 2007 and 2018. Patients were stratified into two groups based on whether they have received the COP approach or were closed primarily by the orthopaedic surgeon. We analysed oncological outcomes and rate of wound complications.

RESULTS

A total of 546 patients with comparable demographics and tumor characteristics were included. The COP approach was performed in 75.6% of the patients. Wide margins were obtained in 97.4% of the cases, and this was significantly higher in the COP group (p < 0.001). The cumulative rate of local recurrence was 4.9%, with a 52% risk reduction in the COP approach, although this reduction was not significant (HR = 0.48; 95% CI 0.21-1.06; p = 0.070). The COP approach had better disease free survival (DFS) (aHR 1.86, 95% CI 1.45-2.37; p < 0.001) and Overall survival (risk of death aHR 0.49; 95% CI 0.30-0.79; p = 0.004). The overall wound complication rate was 18.6% with no difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

A planned collaboration between the orthopaedic oncologist and the plastic surgeon is beneficial in the treatment of STS after neo-adjuvant radiotherapy, allowing remarkably good oncological outcomes and a low rate of wound complications.

Multidisciplinary treatment of soft tissue sarcomas: An update

Standard treatment for soft tissue sarcoma, based on complete surgical resection with or without adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy, has not substantially changed during the last several decades. Nevertheless, recent advances have contributed to considerable improvement in the management of these patients; for example, new magnetic resonance imaging sequences such as diffusion-weighted imaging and magnetic resonance imaging radiomics can better assess tumor extension and even estimate its grade. Detection of circulating genetic material (liquid biopsy) and next-generation sequencing are powerful techniques for genetic analysis, which will increase our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms and may reveal potential therapeutic targets. The role of chemotherapy in non-metastatic disease is still controversial, and there is a need to identify patients who really benefit from this treatment. Novel chemotherapeutic regimens have entered clinical praxis and can change the outcome of patients with metastatic disease. Advances in radiotherapy have helped decrease local adverse effects and sustain good local control of the disease. The following report provides an updated view of the diagnosis, treatment, and future perspectives on the management of patients with soft tissue sarcomas.

Sarcoma Surveillance: A Review of Current Evidence and Guidelines

After initial treatment of sarcoma, disease progression may occur in the form of local recurrence, pulmonary metastases, or extrapulmonary metastases. As such, surveillance is an important aspect of management, but no universally accepted practice standards are found. In the absence of strong evidence, and to allow for individualized care, existing guidelines contain flexibility in terms of both the frequency and modality of surveillance. In general, they agree that follow-up should be more intense in the early years after treatment, especially for high-grade sarcomas, and continue for at least 10 years. For local recurrence, data suggest that physical examination is usually sufficient for monitoring; in addition, some guidelines endorse imaging routinely, whereas others only as clinically indicated. For pulmonary metastasis, either radiograph or CT is recommended, with the latter having theoretical advantages but no proven survival benefit to date. Extrapulmonary metastases are rare in most sarcoma types, so the literature only supports extrapulmonary surveillance for certain diagnoses. This topic is complicated by the diversity of sarcomas, the limited evidence, and the indefinite, often conflicting recommendations; therefore, it is critical for providers to understand the existing research and guidelines to determine optimal surveillance strategies for their patients.

Limbs and trunk soft tissue sarcoma systematic local and remote monitoring by MRI and thoraco-abdomino-pelvic scanner: A single-centre retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare malignant tumors that require management by an expert center. Monitoring modalities are not consensual. The objective of our study is to report systematic radiological monitoring data obtained by local MRI and by thoracic-abdominal-pelvic computed tomography (TAP CT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

113 consecutive patients managed at "Centre Georges François Leclerc, Dijon", between 2008 and 2016, for an initially localized STS were included. Patient follow-up consisted of a local MRI and a TAP CT. Follow-up exams schedule was initially every 4 months during 2 years, followed by every 6 months during 3 years and finally every year during 5 years.

RESULTS

Median follow-up time was 37.2 months [min = 2.4 - max = 111.6]. After 5 years of surveillance, local recurrence (LR) rate was 8.8% and diagnosed by imaging in 60% of cases. No deep LR was clinically found. Median LR diagnosis time was 23.9 months [min = 2.0 - max = 52.4]. 50% of patients locally treated for their LR were alive without recurrence. Metastatic recurrence (MR) rate was 31%. 42.8% had extra-pulmonary involvement and 17.1% had exclusive extrathoracic metastases. The median time to diagnosis of MR was 17.4 months [min = 2.7- max = 77.2]. High-grade tumors relapsed more (20.4%) and earlier (all before the 5th year) than low grade.

CONCLUSION

Local MRI seems particularly suitable for monitoring deep tumors. In addition, the systematic monitoring by TAP CT highlighted a limited number of cases of exclusive extrathoracic metastases. The schedule of local and remote monitoring should primarily be adjusted to tumor grade.

Local recurrence of soft-tissue sarcoma: issues in imaging surveillance strategy

Soft-tissue sarcomas pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges to physicians, owing to the large number of subtypes, aggressive tumor biology, lack of consensus on management, and controversy surrounding interval and duration of surveillance scans. Advances in multidisciplinary management have improved the care of sarcoma patients, but controversy remains regarding strategies for surveillance following definitive local control. This review provides an updated, comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the risk of local recurrence of soft-tissue sarcoma, by examining the literature based on features such as histological type and grade, tumor size, and resection margin status, with the aim of helping clinicians, surgeons, and radiologists to develop a tailored approach to local imaging surveillance.

Intraoperative Electron Radiation Therapy Combined with External Beam Radiation Therapy after Gross Total Resection in Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A European Pooled Analysis

INTRODUCTION

We report a pooled analysis evaluating the combination of gross complete limb-sparing surgery, intraoperative electron radiation therapy (IOERT), and external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) in patients with extremity soft tissue sarcoma (STS).

METHODS

Individual data of 259 patients (median follow-up 63 months) with extremity STS from three European expert centers were pooled. Median age was 55 years and median tumor size was 8 cm. Eighty percent of patients presented with primary disease, mainly located in the lower limb (81%). Union for International Cancer Control 7th edition stage at presentation was as follows: stage I: 9%; stage II: 47%; stage III: 39%; stage IV: 5%. Most patients showed high-grade lesions (91%), predominantly liposarcoma (31%). Median IOERT dose was 12 Gy, preceeded (17%) or followed (83%) by EBRT, with a median dose of 45 Gy.

RESULTS

Surgery resulted in R0 resections in 71% of patients and R1 resections in 29% of patients. The 5-year local control (LC) rate was 86%, and significant factors in univariate analysis were disease status and resection margin. Only margin remained significant in multivariate analysis. The 5-year distant control rate was 69%, and significant factors in univariate analysis were histology, grading, resection margin, and metastases prior to/at IOERT. Only grading and metastases remained significant in multivariate analysis. Actuarial 5-year rates of freedom from treatment failure and OS were 61% and 78%, respectively. Significant factors for OS were grading and metastases prior to/at IOERT (univariate, multivariate). Limb preservation and good functional outcome were achieved in 95% and 81% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our pooled analysis confirmed prior reports of encouraging LC and survival, with excellent rates of preserved limb function with this treatment approach. Resection margin remained the most important factor for LC, while grading and metastases prior to/at IOERT mainly predicted survival.

Prognostic significance of microscopic tumor extension in local recurrence of myxofibrosarcoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma

Myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) frequently display infiltrative growth into the adjacent normal soft tissue. In this study, we aimed to determine whether the microscopic extension into surrounding normal tissue can influence the local recurrence of MFS and UPS. A total of 42 cases (22 MFS and 20 UPS) were examined. The length of the microscopic extension was measured from the edge of the main tumor mass to the end of infiltration. The length of 5.5 mm was selected as the optimal cut-off value that could predict local recurrence using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Youden index. Longer length of microscopic extension was significantly correlated with the status of resection margin (P = 0.032). The group with longer length of microscopic extension (>5.5 mm) had significantly worse recurrence-free survival than the group with shorter length of microscopic extension (≤5.5 mm) (P = 0.000). Multivariate analysis revealed that the length of microscopic extension was independent predictors of recurrence-free survival (P = 0.018). In conclusion, microscopic extensions at the edge of the main mass into the surrounding normal tissue were observed in most MFS and UPS patients, and the length of microscopic extension was associated with local recurrence.

Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy is Associated with R0 Resection and Improved Survival for Patients with Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma Undergoing Surgery: A National Cancer Database Analysis

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant radiotherapy (RT) is increasingly advocated for the management of soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Therefore, this study sought to characterize the impact of neoadjuvant RT on rates of R0 resection and overall survival (OS) in extremity STS patients undergoing surgery.

METHODS

From January 2003 to December 2012, the study identified patients with a diagnosis of extremity STS from the National Cancer Database. After exclusion of patients younger than 18 years, not treated by surgery, who had metastases at diagnosis, intraoperative RT, and missing or unknown data, 27,969 patients were identified. Logistic regression and Cox-proportional hazard analysis were used to compare rates of R0 resection among preoperative, postoperative, and no-RT cohorts and to determine predictors of R0 resection and OS.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 59.5 ± 17.1 years, and 45.9% were female. The median tumor size was 10.5 cm. The data showed that 51% of the patients did not receive RT, 11.8% received preoperative RT, and 37.2% received postoperative RT. The rates of R0 resection were 90.1% for the preoperative RT cohort, 74.9% for the postoperative RT cohort, and 79.9% for the no-RT cohort (P < 0.001). The independent predictors for achievement of R0 resection included academic facility type (odds ratio [OR] 1.36; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.20-1.55), histologic subtype, tumor size (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.99-0.99), Charlson score (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.84-0.99), and preoperative RT (OR 1.83; 95% CI 1.61-2.07). Both R0 resection and RT (pre- or post-operative) were associated with increased OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative RT independently predicts higher rates of R0 resection for patients with extremity STS undergoing surgical resection. Negative surgical margins and pre- or postoperative RT are associated with improved OS.

Computer navigation and distal femoral reconstruction in the oncologic patient

OBJECTIVES

As adjuvant treatments for musculoskeletal malignancies improve expectations of preserved function increase. We questioned whether computer navigation for distal femoral reconstruction would improve outcomes.

METHODS

Twenty oncology patients were reviewed after distal femoral reconstruction using navigation. Outcomes included local recurrence, implant revision, patient function, patellofemoral complications and leg-length inequality.

RESULTS

Implant survivorship was 85% at 26 months. There were no local recurrences and 3 failures for aseptic loosening. Good functional outcomes were observed in remaining cases.

CONCLUSION

Computer navigation for distal femoral reconstruction resulted in acceptable functional outcomes and implant survivorship. Reduced local recurrence were observed at intermediate follow-up. Level of Evidence: Level IV.

Treatment of intimal sarcoma of peripheral veins

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Intimal sarcoma is an extremely rare group.

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Intimal sarcoma of large veins even rarer information and case reports are limited.

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Unique case in the medical literature and the best current evidence in the biological behavior and the response of the multiple options of treatment in this type of tumors.

Introduction

Intimal sarcoma is an extremely rare group of undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma arising from the intimal layer of vessels accounting for only 1% of all sarcomas, intimal sarcoma of large veins are even less common.

Cases presentation

We present two cases of intima sarcoma, one originated form the basilar vein and the other from the cephalic vein, the first one was treated with surgery and postoperative chemotherapy followed by Radiotherapy (RT), the second case was treated with isolated limb perfusion followed by marginal resection and RT. Both patients progressed to the lungs in a short time, the first case was treated with metastasectomy of the lung and is without evidence of disease 7 months after surgery; the second case treated with isolated limb perfusion has stable disease.

Discussion

Intimal sarcoma are very aggressive tumors, with a high metastatic potential, the two patients progressed to lung in a short time (2 months) after local treatment. Both cases exhibit good response to chemotherapy and metastasectomy with a disease – free period of 7 months.

Conclusion

We propose that given the aggressive behavior of these tumors, they should be treated with chemoradiotherapy postoperative, either by systemic chemotherapy or isolated limb perfusion for the limp sparing surgery in this histology.

Prognostic Factors in Indian Patients Operated for Soft Tissue Sarcomas-a Retrospective Cross-sectional Analysis

Soft tissue sarcomas are a rare entity. While surgery is established as the mainstay of treatment, the exact role and sequencing of adjuvant therapy is not well defined. Literature on Indian patients with soft tissue sarcoma with respect to clinical profile and prognostic factors is scarce. We retrospectively analysed the data of 112 patients operated for soft tissue sarcoma of extremity or trunk (excluding retroperitoneal and mediastinal sarcomas, round cell histology) at our institute from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2013. Around half the patients were less than 50 years of age and around a third had size more than 10 cm. Oncological outcome was correlated with various demographic, tumour-related and treatment-related factors using SPSS 22. Overall survival at 5 years was 73.2 % and event-free survival at 5 years was 42.2 %. At final follow-up (mean of 44.85 ± 4.64 months), local recurrence was seen in 31.9 % and distant metastasis was seen in 30.1 % of the patients. Using both univariate and multivariate analysis, younger age (<50 years), larger size (>10 cm, but not >5 cm) and pathologically positive lymph nodes were the only factors found significantly affecting overall survival. The clinical profile and prognosis of Indian patients with soft tissue sarcoma were found to be different from that reported in Western literature. The impact of established prognostic indicators for soft tissue sarcoma also differed in Indian patients, which may have both prognostic and therapeutic implications.

Successful resection of giant esophageal liposarcoma by endoscopic submucosal dissection combined with surgical retrieval: a case report and literature review

Liposarcoma of the esophagus is very rare. We experienced a huge (27.5 × 11.6 cm) liposarcoma of the esophagus. A 73-year-old man presented with severe dyspnea requiring emergency tracheal intubation. Computed tomography and esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a large submucosal tumor arising from the esophageal entrance and extending intraluminally to the lower esophagus. We successfully performed endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and esophagotomy to remove the tumor, which preserved swallowing and phonation. The final diagnosis by histopathologic and immunohistologic examination was well-differentiated liposarcoma of the esophagus. Treatment by the combination of ESD and esophagotomy can be performed even for a very large tumor. This method preserves deglutition with a lower risk of recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis than that with esophagectomy.

Intraoperative Raman spectroscopy of soft tissue sarcomas

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a rare and heterogeneous group of malignant tumors that are often treated through surgical resection. Current intraoperative margin assessment methods are limited and highlight the need for an improved approach with respect to time and specificity. Here we investigate the potential of near-infrared Raman spectroscopy for the intraoperative differentiation of STS from surrounding normal tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vivo Raman measurements at 785 nm excitation were intraoperatively acquired from subjects undergoing STS resection using a probe based spectroscopy system. A multivariate classification algorithm was developed in order to automatically identify spectral features that can be used to differentiate STS from the surrounding normal muscle and fat. The classification algorithm was subsequently tested using leave-one-subject-out cross-validation.

RESULTS

With the exclusion of well-differentiated liposarcomas, the algorithm was able to classify STS from the surrounding normal muscle and fat with a sensitivity and specificity of 89.5% and 96.4%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that single point near-infrared Raman spectroscopy could be utilized as a rapid and non-destructive surgical guidance tool for identifying abnormal tissue margins in need of further excision. Lasers Surg. Med. 48:774-781, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria Follow-Up of Malignant or Aggressive Musculoskeletal Tumors

Appropriate imaging modalities for the follow-up of malignant or aggressive musculoskeletal tumors include radiography, MRI, CT, (18)F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose PET/CT, (99m)Tc bone scan, and ultrasound. Clinical scenarios reviewed include evaluation for metastatic disease to the lung in low- and high-risk patients, for osseous metastatic disease in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients, for local recurrence of osseous tumors with and without significant hardware present, and for local recurrence of soft tissue tumors. The timing for follow-up of pulmonary metastasis surveillance is also reviewed. The ACR Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed every three years by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and review include an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer-reviewed journals and the application of a well-established consensus methodology (modified Delphi) to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures by the panel. In those instances in which evidence is lacking or not definitive, expert opinion may be used to recommend imaging or treatment.

Preclinical Validation of the Utility of BLZ-100 in Providing Fluorescence Contrast for Imaging Spontaneous Solid Tumors

There is a need in surgical oncology for contrast agents that can enable real-time intraoperative visualization of solid tumors that can enable complete resections while sparing normal surrounding tissues. The Tumor Paint agent BLZ-100 is a peptide-fluorophore conjugate that can specifically bind solid tumors and fluoresce in the near-infrared range, minimizing light scatter and signal attenuation. In this study, we provide a preclinical proof of concept for use of this imaging contrast agent as administered before surgery to dogs with a variety of naturally occurring spontaneous tumors. Imaging was performed on excised tissues as well as intraoperatively in a subset of cases. Actionable contrast was achieved between tumor tissue and surrounding normal tissues in adenocarcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, mast cell tumors, and soft tissue sarcomas. Subcutaneous soft tissue sarcomas were labeled with the highest fluorescence intensity and greatest tumor-to-background signal ratio. Our results establish a foundation that rationalizes clinical studies in humans with soft tissue sarcoma, an indication with a notably high unmet need.

Near-infrared autofluorescence spectroscopy of in vivo soft tissue sarcomas

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a rare and heterogeneous group of malignant tumors that are often treated via surgical resection. Inadequate resection can lead to local recurrence and decreased survival rates. In this study, we investigate the hypothesis that near-infrared (NIR) autofluorescence can be utilized for tumor margin analysis by differentiating STS from the surrounding normal tissue. Intraoperative in vivo measurements were acquired from 30 patients undergoing STS resection and were characterized to differentiate between normal tissue and STS. Overall, normal muscle and fat were observed to have the highest and lowest autofluorescence intensities, respectively, with STS falling in between. With the exclusion of well-differentiated liposarcomas, the algorithm's accuracy for classifying muscle, fat, and STS was 93%, 92%, and 88%, respectively. These findings suggest that NIR autofluorescence spectroscopy has potential as a rapid and nondestructive surgical guidance tool that can inform surgeons of suspicious margins in need of immediate re-excision.

Postoperative radiation boost does not improve local recurrence rates in extremity soft tissue sarcomas

INTRODUCTION

The standard of care for extremity soft tissue sarcomas continues to be negative-margin limb salvage surgery. Radiotherapy is frequently used as an adjunct to decrease local recurrence. No differences in survival have been found between preoperative and postoperative radiotherapy regimens. However, it is uncertain if the use of a postoperative boost in addition to preoperative radiotherapy reduces local recurrence rates.

METHODS

This retrospective review evaluated patients who received preoperative radiotherapy (n = 49) and patients who received preoperative radiotherapy with a postoperative boost (n = 45). The primary endpoint analysed was local recurrence, with distant metastasis and death due to sarcoma analysed as secondary endpoints. Wilcoxon rank-sum test and either χ(2) or Fisher's exact test were used to compare variables. Multivariable regression analyses were used to take into account potential confounders and identify variables that affected outcomes.

RESULTS

No differences in the proportion or rate of local recurrence, distant metastasis or death due to sarcoma were observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). The two groups were similarly matched with respect to demographics such as age, race and sex and tumour characteristics including excision status, tumour site, size, depth, grade, American Joint Committee on Cancer stage, chemotherapy receipt and histological subtype (P > 0.05). The postoperative boost group had a larger proportion of patients with positive microscopic margins (62% vs 10%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

No differences in rates of local recurrence, distant metastasis or death due to sarcoma were found in patients who received both pre- and postoperative radiotherapy when compared with those who received only preoperative radiotherapy.

[Radiotherapy as conservative therapy for sarcomas within the irradiated field]

PURPOSE

To describe long-term outcome after combined-modality treatment including radiation therapy in patients with localized sarcoma within irradiated field.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Individual clinical data from all consecutive patients diagnosed and treated for a localized sarcoma within irradiated field between January 2000 and October 2011 at the Institut Claudius-Regaud, Toulouse, France, were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients were eligible for this study. Ten patients were re-irradiated with a rate of unresectable, gross or microscopically positive margins disease significantly higher than the rest of the cohort (90% vs. 12%; P<0.001). After a median follow-up of 3.8 years, there is a non-significant trend toward longer 4-year relapse free survival in the subgroup of patients who received adjuvant or definitive radiation therapy compared to the rest of the cohort (53% vs. 27%; P=0.09) with an acceptable toxicity profile allowing conservative management.

CONCLUSION

The complete surgical resection sarcoma within irradiated field is often difficult to achieve enhancing the risk of relapse. Radiation therapy should be discussed when faced with an unresectable tumour or after suboptimal surgery as part of intensified local management with a curative intent.

Prognostic analysis for survival after resections of localized primary cardiac sarcomas: a single-institution experience

BACKGROUND

Primary cardiac sarcomas are rare diseases with a poor prognosis. This study aims to provide a prognostic analysis after different levels of resections of cardiac sarcomas.

METHODS

Twenty-nine patients undergoing resections of primary cardiac sarcomas at the Zhongshan Hospital from September 1995 to July 2012 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

There were 15 women and 14 men. The mean age was 41.0 years. The most common histologic type was angiosarcoma (28%). The median survival for the entire cohort was 17 months (range, 5 to 216 months). Patients with microscopically negative margin (R0) resections had a better median survival than those with microscopically positive margin (R1) resections (58 months versus 11 months; p<0.001). The median survival after an R1 resection was not different from that after a partial resection (12 months; p=0.81). The median local recurrence-free survival after an R0 resection was longer than that after an R1 resection (36 months versus 6 months; p<0.001). Five patients who underwent R0 resections and repeated resections of local recurrences or metastases had the longest median survival of 72 months. None of the patients with R0 resections received adjuvant therapy. Multimodality treatment after R1 and partial resections slightly increased the survival.

CONCLUSIONS

For nonmetastatic and localized primary cardiac sarcoma, an R0 surgical resection of cardiac sarcomas should be performed. Aggressive surgical treatment or radiation therapy for local recurrence or metastasis prolongs the survival. Multimodality treatment is recommended after incomplete resections of cardiac sarcomas. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy after R0 resections is unclear.

Tumour volume changes following pre-operative radiotherapy in borderline resectable limb and trunk soft tissue sarcoma

AIMS

To evaluate tumour volume changes after preoperative radiotherapy (PRT) for borderline operable soft tissue sarcomas (STS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of 68 patients who received PRT between December 2004 and July 2011. Endpoints were radiological response, surgical margins, local control and survival.

RESULTS

Median tumour size was 12.5 cm. Tumour location was extremity (87%), trunk (12%), and neck (1%). Commonest histological subtypes were myxoid liposarcoma (32%) and myxofibrosarcoma (16%). The majority of patients (88%) received 50 Gy in 25 fractions. Post-radiotherapy imaging was available in 55 cases. By RECIST there was stable disease in 89%, partial response in 7% and progressive disease in 4%. Tumour volumes reduced in 80%. Median change in maximal tumour dimension was -13.6%; median change in volume was greater, at -33.3%. Tumour volumes increased in 11 cases (20%). However, surgical margins were clear in all 11 cases, with no local recurrences in this group. For the entire group, surgical margins were clear in 93%, and microscopically positive in 7%. Eight patients (12%) had local relapse at 2-24.8 months after surgery. Two year local relapse free survival was 87.5%; 2 year overall survival was 74.7%.

CONCLUSION

The majority of tumours showed reduction in volume. A small number of tumours increased in volume, but there was no definite relationship between volume increase and poor surgical outcomes or lower local control rates. Local control was equivalent to published series' of PRT. PRT is a reasonable approach in patients with borderline resectable tumours.

Patterns of local recurrence and dose fractionation of adjuvant radiation therapy in 462 patients with soft tissue sarcoma of extremity and trunk wall

PURPOSE

To study the impact of dose fractionation of adjuvant radiation therapy (RT) on local recurrence (LR) and the relation of LR to radiation fields.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

LR rates were analyzed in 462 adult patients with soft tissue sarcoma who underwent surgical excision and adjuvant RT at five Scandinavian sarcoma centers from 1998 to 2009. Medical records were reviewed for dose fractionation parameters and to determine the location of the LR relative to the radiation portals.

RESULTS

Fifty-five of 462 patients developed a LR (11.9%). Negative prognostic factors included intralesional surgical margin (hazard ratio [HR]: 7.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.08-20.0), high malignancy grade (HR: 5.82, 95% CI: 1.31-25.8), age at diagnosis (HR per 10 years: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.03-1.56), and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor histological subtype (HR: 6.66, 95% CI: 2.56-17.3). RT dose was tailored to margin status. No correlation between RT dose and LR rate was found in multiple Cox regression analysis. The majority (65%) of LRs occurred within the primary RT volume.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant dose-response effect of adjuvant RT was demonstrated. Interestingly, patients given 45-Gy accelerated RT (1.8 Gy twice daily/2.5 weeks) had the best local outcome. A total dose of 50 Gy in 25 fractions seemed adequate following wide margin surgery. The risk of LR was associated with histopathologic subtype, which should be included in the treatment algorithm of adjuvant RT in soft tissue sarcoma.