THE IMPORTANCE OF A MULTIDISCIPLINARY GROUP IN THE TREATMENT OF SOFT-TISSUE SARCOMAS

In 1987, a multidisciplinary soft tissue sarcoma (STS) group was estab lished and a treatment protocol was set up. By 1993, there were 193 pa tients with a diagnosis of STS of the superficial trunk or extremities . 134 patients were referred with primary (stage M0) tumours and treat ed with curative or palliative intention. Nine amputations were perfor med. 94 (70%) patients were treated with wide or compartment surgery ( n = 62) or marginal surgery combined with postoperative radiotherapy ( n = 32). According to the protocol, these patients had received adequa te treatment. 18 patients have recurred locally (13%) (median follow-u p: 36 months). 12 were salvaged. 33 had metastases. The estimated 3-ye ar survival, local control and disease-free survival rates are 79, 87 and 69%, respectively. These results compare favourably with previousl y published results from this hospital and from a nationwide study. Th e improved results emphasise the importance of a multidisciplinary STS group.