Nursing management of soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities

Soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities are uncommon malignancies that require combined modality treatment. Treatments include extensive surgical procedures, usually radiation therapy, and, in some cases, chemotherapy. Nursing care requires an understanding of surgical and reconstructive procedures, brachytherapy implants, radiation safety regulations, and chemotherapeutic agents. The combination of extensive surgery and radiation has greatly reduced the need for amputation, but the complexity of the treatments requires skilled and knowledgeable nursing care.