Combined-modality treatment of localized soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities

Over the past 20 years, considerable progress has been made in the treatment of patients with extremity soft tissue sarcomas. There has been a migration away from amputation toward treatment by excision plus radiation for most patients with localized tumors. Decisions about the optimal use and sequencing of surgery and radiation remain complex. Whereas it is clear that local control is probably not impacted significantly by the treatment sequence, rates of wound complication, fibrosis, and edema are affected by the treatment sequence. In addition, recent single-institution reports indicate that some carefully selected patients can be treated by surgery alone. The recent data evaluating treatment by surgery alone and treatment sequencing variables do not lead to a situation in which clear, uniform recommendations for treatment can be made for many patients with extremity soft tissue sarcomas. Indeed, treatment planning for patients with extremity soft tissue sarcoma in the new millennium is infinitely more complex than it was in the era when amputation was the primary treatment for these patients. Considerable clinical experience and multidisciplinary input are required for optimal treatment planning for these patients. Future research should be directed at refining the indications for specific therapies, reducing the toxicities of local therapies, and developing more effective systemic therapies.