A model for multi-institutional, multidisciplinary sarcoma videoconferencing.

Abstract

10521 Background: Sarcomas are rare cancers, with > 50 subtypes, and require multi-disciplinary care. Their management benefits from multi-institutional input due to the paucity of concentrated experience with each subtype. However, sarcoma tumor boards, wherein a patient-specific, consensus treatment approach is determined, are predominantly conducted in isolation at individual centers. Methods: Since March 2010, we have conducted a weekly multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary sarcoma tumor board to combine knowledge and experience in the management of our most challenging patients. The Mayo Clinic bridge links sites by interactive videofeed. Each site may contribute cases. De-identified history, radiology and pathology are reviewed. A didactic series reviews a rotation of seminal papers, newly published research, or our own data. An “Expert Guest" series allows outside experts to connect to one conference. A yearly participant survey assesses quality. Conference is free to sites and is CME accredited. Results: Currently, 8 sarcoma programs connect Mondays from 8-9am ET. Median attendance is 20 (range: 8-27). In 2012, 342 cases were reviewed over 43 conferences (median: 8 cases/conference; range: 4-12 cases/conference). The 2012 survey revealed 96% (25/26) agreed HIPAA rules are followed; 93% (25/27) agreed conference is educational; 93% (25/27) agreed recommendations are evidenced-based or reasonable; 100% (27/27) agreed participants are respectful; and 86% (18/21) agreed input from other sites has changed their management. Staff attendance (quantity) rated as meets/exceeds needs was 100% (25/25) for medical oncology; 96% (26/27) for pathology; 93% (25/27) for orthopedic oncology; 92% (23/25) for radiation oncology, surgical oncology and radiology; and 61% (17/23) for thoracic oncology. Conclusions: To our knowledge, this is the only weekly multi-institutional sarcoma tumor board in existence. It permits consistent oncology care across a wide geographic area, and is a model for providing consensus recommendations regardless of the remoteness of the patient and care team. Future plans for this group include prospective collection of outcomes data.