Surgical management of soft tissue sarcomas of the extremities

The operative treatment of soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) requires extensive planning involving a multidisciplinary approach. The diagnosis is established through imaging and subsequent biopsy, which must be performed without contaminating surrounding tissues in ways that might complicate the definitive resection. Many factors related to both the patient and the sarcoma must be carefully evaluated to determine the most appropriate form of adjuvant treatment and the feasibility of limb salvage. Finally, patients should be counseled preoperatively regarding functional expectations. This article discusses the techniques and considerations that are essential to optimizing both oncologic outcome and patient satisfaction in the management of soft tissue sarcomas.