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A gigantic thorax mass - resection and reconstruction
Mendes Alvarenga1, José Gonçalo Paupério2
1Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery and Burn Unity, Centro Hospitalar de São João, Porto, Portugal.
Summary
This case study details the successful surgical resection of a large, recurrent chondrosarcoma of the chest wall. The extensive tumor required complex reconstruction, resulting in a positive outcome for the patient.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Chondrosarcoma is a rare malignant tumor arising from cartilage.
- Recurrence of chondrosarcoma can occur, necessitating aggressive treatment.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old woman presented with a large chest wall mass, a recurrence of a previously excised chondrosarcoma.
- Imaging revealed a massive tumor (21x19.5x24 cm) invading multiple thoracic structures and the upper abdomen.
Findings:
- The patient underwent extensive en bloc resection, including the tumor, four ribs, partial lung, and diaphragm resection.
- Thoracic wall reconstruction was performed using polypropylene and methacrylate prostheses.
- The resected specimen weighed approximately 11 kg.
Implications:
- This case highlights the feasibility of complete surgical excision for massive, recurrent chest wall chondrosarcomas.
- Complex multi-organ resection and reconstruction can lead to favorable outcomes.
- Multidisciplinary surgical approaches are crucial for managing extensive thoracic malignancies.
