Forequarter amputation post transarterial chemoembolization and radiation in synovial sarcoma: A case report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Forequarter amputation (interscapulothoracic amputation) is a radical procedure involving the entire upper extremity, scapula, and clavicle.
• It is primarily indicated for managing malignant tumors of the upper limb and shoulder girdle, especially when bleeding is a significant concern.

Observation:

• A case report details a 25-year-old patient with synovial sarcoma undergoing forequarter amputation.
• The patient received transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radiation therapy to manage bleeding associated with the tumor.

Findings:

• Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and radiotherapy demonstrated effectiveness in controlling both preoperative and intraoperative bleeding in this synovial sarcoma case.
• The study highlights the potential utility of these combined therapies in managing massive bleeding during surgical interventions for such malignancies.

Implications:

• This approach may offer a viable strategy for improving outcomes in patients with extensively bleeding synovial sarcomas requiring major amputation.
• Further research is warranted to clarify the long-term efficacy and role of forequarter amputation in conjunction with neoadjuvant therapies for advanced extremity sarcomas.