Surgical excision of soft tissue sarcomas in dogs
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) represent a heterogeneous group of tumors, with varying mesenchymal cell origin, size and histological grade. Large soft tissue sarcomas pose a surgical challenge due to feasibility of excision and are often dismissed as good surgical candidates due to an anticipated poor prognosis.
The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of dogs that underwent surgical excision of large (≥5 cm), low to intermediate grade, soft tissue sarcomas.
Researchers reviewed medical records of dogs that presented for STS excision between 2009 and 2021. The team obtained medical information regarding signalment, tumor location and size, preoperative cytology and histology, preoperative imaging, surgical findings, postoperative histological diagnosis and outcome.
Dogs were included in the study if they underwent surgical excision of a de novo cutaneous or subcutaneous STS, which measured at least five centimeters in one plane, and was histologically diagnosed as low-intermediate grade. The team conducted long-term follow-up and gathered data via consultation, telephone or email.
Researchers included 39 dogs with large, low-intermediate grade STS in the study. Data showed that most tumors were Grade 1 (28 of 39), located predominantly on the thigh and thorax (17 of 39).
Tumors were removed by at least a narrow margin excision (≥1 cm) and deep fascial plane in all cases. Histological margins were deemed complete in 15 of 39, close (1-3 mm) in eight of 39, incomplete in four of 39 and unknown in 12 of 39. All sites were closed primarily, either directly or with flap reconstruction.
Long-term follow-up (median 1064 days) reported good postoperative function, with owner reported local recurrence in two of the 39 dogs. Minor complications occurred in 10 of 39 dogs and major complications requiring surgical intervention occurred in five of 39 dogs.
In conclusion, large, low-intermediate grade STSs can be surgically excised with good long-term function and outcome, where consideration is given to appropriate case selection and planning. If skin flap reconstruction is required, owners should be made aware of the possible complications associated with their use.
A Davis, et al. “Long-Term outcome following surgical excision of large, low to intermediate grade soft tissue sarcomas in dogs.” Aust Vet J. 7 February 2023. doi: 10.1111/avj.13232.
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