Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Radiotherapy after limb soft tissue sarcoma surgery in dogs
By Demetriou, J L et al.·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2012·Queens Veterinary School Hospital, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Intentional marginal excision of canine limb soft tissue sarcomas followed by radiotherapy.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs with soft tissue sarcomas on their limbs underwent surgery to remove the tumors, followed by radiation therapy. The treatment was generally successful, with only a small number of dogs experiencing complications. However, some tumors did come back, and the timing of the radiation therapy was important; starting it within four weeks after surgery led to better outcomes. Overall, this approach showed promise for managing these types of tumors in dogs, with many dogs having good long-term results.
People also search for: dog soft tissue sarcoma treatment · dog radiation therapy after surgery · what to expect after dog tumor removal
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the outcome in a group of dogs treated with postoperative radiotherapy following intentional marginal excision of soft tissue sarcomas from their limbs and to assess parameters for prognostic significance. METHOD: Patients that had had intentional marginal excision of limb soft tissue sarcomas followed by radiotherapy were selected. A coarse fractionated protocol of four once weekly 8 to 9 Gy by 4 MV x-rays was used. The time to local recurrence was determined. Tumour grade, size, site, number of surgeries, surgeon and time from last surgery to radiotherapy were evaluated as potential prognostic indicators. RESULTS: Fifty-six cases were included. Minor surgical complications occurred in four patients (7%). Tumour recurred locally in 10 dogs (18%). Fourteen dogs died from tumour-related causes (25%). From Cox proportional hazard analysis time from surgery to radiotherapy was the only predictor of tumour recurrence (P=0·039); hazard ratio 8·63. Delaying radiotherapy beyond 4 weeks was associated with improved outcomes. Three dogs developed serious but non-life-threatening local complications; wound dehiscence, self-trauma and osteonecrosis of underlying bone. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Intentional marginal excision followed by hypofractionated radiotherapy is a viable option for canine limb soft tissue sarcomas, providing good long-term clinical outcomes and low morbidity.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22931399/