[Desmoid tumors and brachial plexus]

The aim of our paper is to assess the functional results and specific difficulties encountered in the treatment of desmoid tumors located near the brachial plexus. Seven patients with a desmoid tumor in this region were followed for at least 2 years (average 59 months). All patients were managed operatively. The resection was marginal in 6 patients and intralesional in one. Three patient had postoperatively chemotherapy and 1 patient had radiation therapy. At review, none of the 7 patients had had to undergo upper limb amputation and the mean functional results were good or excellent in 6 patients (mean MSTS = 72.8). The margins of desmoid tumor resection have to be wide to avoid local recurrence. However, nerves and blood vessels have to be preserved in order to maintain upper limb function and there may well be a need for adjuvant therapy.