[Scapulectomy as an extremity preserving intervention in surgery of soft tissue sarcoma]

In the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas, radical surgery may mean total scapulectomy. If the tumour is localized next to the scapula wide margins can be better achieved by an operation of this kind than by resection of soft parts. In the planning of these operations radical surgery has priority. The functional results after total scapulectomy is acceptable. There is a distinct reduction of shoulder mobility, especially in abduction. As the peripheral joints are fully conserved, the extremity can be used very well in daily life. The indications for total scapulectomy and the technique are discussed with reference to two clinical cases.