Learning objectives
To review the most important imaging findings for surgical planning that should be evaluated during the locoregional staging of Soft Tissue Sarcomas (STS) of the extremities.
Background
STS are rare malignant tumours originating from mesenchymal tissue at any body site but mostly arising in an extremity (59%).
STS staging classifications are evolving,
but imaging,
namely MRI,
is an essential tool for the initial evaluation of these patients,
as its soft tissue resolution permits excellent delineation of the extent of the tumour and its relation to adjacent structures.
Imaging findings OR Procedure Details
We reviewed MRI studies performed at our institution,
during the initial evaluation of patients with a diagnosis of STS of the extremities,
to illustrate findings relevant for surgical planning,
such as tumour size,
location,
depth extension,
peritumoral oedema,
neurovascular and bone/joint invasion.
STS commonly present as an enlarging,
painless mass.
Distant metastatic disease is uncommon,
being more frequent in large,
deep and high-grade tumours.
Initial evaluation of a soft tissue mass encompasses clinical history,
physical examination,
imaging,
and histologic evaluation through biopsy.
STS patient should...
Conclusion
STS of the extremities are a group of rare and heterogeneous neoplasms mostly managed at tertiary and specialised hospitals.
Nevertheless,
every Radiologist should be familiarized with their evaluation as initial imaging is commonly performed outside these centres.
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