Thoracic Tumors in Children and their Long-Term Outcomes: A Single-Center Experience

This study aims to review our experience in children with thoracic tumors managed by different surgical approaches, and to evaluate their long-term outcomes in relation to their functional status and quality of life.

This is a retrospective study (2011-2021). Children <18 years with tumors of the thorax (lung, mediastinum, and thoracic cage) were included. All included were diagnosed, managed, and followed up based on a departmental protocol. Children alive were followed up annually to monitor the development of chest wall/spinal deformities and assessed regarding their quality of life (Lansky play-performance scale) and pulmonary functions. Information regarding their demography, clinical presentations, diagnosis, treatment administered, outcome, and follow-up details were collated and analyzed.

Twenty-two children with thoracic tumors were included (2011-2021). Of which, 6/22 are benign and 16/22 are malignant lesions. About 14/22 children are alive on a regular follow-up until 2021, with a mean follow-up of 6 years (benign) and 6.25 years (malignant). About 3/22 children with malignant tumors requiring thoracotomy with rib resections developed scoliosis with a severely restrictive pattern on pulmonary functions, having a mild-to-moderate restriction of play on quality of life grading.

Early follow-up of children who have undergone various surgical approaches for thoracic tumors based on the quality of life assessment and pulmonary function tests helps in planning early intervention if needed, especially in those who have undergone thoracotomy with rib resections, thereby improving their long-term functional status.