Abstract

In this article, we would like to present an unusual primary malignant tumors of the thorax. Case history and radiological studies of 4 patients with histologic diagnosis of thoracic sarcomas were interpreted retrospectively. Tumors originated from the chest wall, mediastinum, and pulmonary parenchyma. Histopathologic diagnoses were: thymo-liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, malignant Schwannoma and malignant mesothelioma – sarcomatoid type. In order to evaluate thoracic sarcomas, cross-sectional methods such as CT and MRI can be useful in demonstrating the origin of the mass, relationship with and involvement of adjacent structures. Chest wall resections are associated with significant morbidity, with respiratory failure in as many as 27% of patients. We hypothesized that our selective use of Dual-mesh prosthesis and STRATOS System (Strasbourg Thoracic Osteosyntheses) for chest wall reconstruction reduces respiratory complications. The records of all patients with giant tumors undergoing chest wall resection and reconstruction were reviewed. Patient demographics, use of preoperative therapy, the location and size of the chest wall defect, performance of lung resection if any, the type of prosthesis, and postoperative complications were recorded. From February 2009 to January 2014, 4 patients underwent surgical treatment and chest wall resection for giant chest tumor. The median defect size was 80 cm2 and the median number of ribs resected was 3. lung resection was performed in 3. Prosthetic reconstruction was done with use of dual and polypropylene mesh and STRATOS system. Postoperatively, 1 patients died (had pneumonectomy plus chest wall resection. Respiratory failure did not occurred. Sarcomas are rare tumors of the thorax. They can originate from the lung parenchyma, mediastinum, pleura, or the chest wall. Angiosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and mesothelioma (sarcomatoid variant) are the most commonly encountered histopathological types. The diagnosis is established after making the differential diagnosis for histopathologically sarcoma-like malignancies (sarcomatoid carcinomas) and metastatic disease. Radiologically, these lesions usually appear as large heterogeneous masses. The use of malleable Titanium bars to restore anatomic rib continuity helps to preserve the mechanics of ventilation better than a soft patch repair. We have no incidence of respiratory failure. Pneumonectomy plus chest wall resection should be performed only in highly selected patients.

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