TOTAL SCAPULECTOMY AS A LIMB-CONSERVING OPERATION IN THE TREATMENT OFSOFT-TISSUE SARCOMAS

In the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas, radical surgery may mean tot al scapulectomy. If the tumour is localized next to the scapula wide m argins can be better achieved by an operation of this kind than by res ection of soft parts. In the planning of these operations radical surg ery has priority. The functional result after total scapulectomy is ac ceptable. There is a distinct reduction of shoulder mobility, especial ly in abduction. As the peripheral joints are fully conserved, the ext remity can be used very well in daily life. The indications for total scapulectomy and the technique are discussed with reference to two cli nical cases.