SOFT-TISSUE SARCOMA OF THE EXTREMITY

A retrospective review of 33 cases of soft tissue sarcoma of the extre mity presenting over a 10 year period was undertaken. The history, pat terns of referral, diagnostic investigations, procedures undertaken an d outcomes were studied.We found there was a frequent delay in diagnos is and sometimes misinterpretation of biopsy specimens. Patients were seen by a variety of specialists from disciplines such as general surg ery, plastic surgery, orthopaedic surgery and rheumatology. Considerab le progress has been made in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas, of ten allowing local control of the tumour without amputation. We believ e there should be early referral of patients having these tumours to a centre where a combined multidisciplinary approach can be undertaken.