[Resection in the treatment of osteosarcoma of the limbs. Is amputation still indicated?]

The authors have treated 30 cases of limb sarcoma by conservative surgery since 1980. During this period only one limb had to be amputated. The follow-up period is short and this is a preliminary report. The early results of cases treated by resection followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy appear to be encouraging. Up to date, only one recurrence has occurred which has been treated by another local resection with no further recurrence 18 months later. 10 patients have had metastasis: 6 died--3 metastasis were resected with success and the patients are still alive. It is concluded that amputation is rarely, indicated, provided there is adequate initial information about the extent of the tumour and continuing post-operative co-operation between Surgeon and Physician.