SUNstudy Study Protocol: Sarcoma Usual versus Negative Pressure Study Protocol

David Shelds

doi:10.4172/2471-8416.100047

Abstract

Background: Tumour excision with negative margins is the ultimate goal following soft tissue sarcoma excision, but obtaining this goal can come at a cost with high wound complication rates reported. There is however an emerging body of evidence that primary application of a negative pressure dressing can significantly decrease the risk of developing post-operative wound complications. This paper describes the study protocol for an interventional randomized controlled trial, comparing the efficacy of negative pressure dressings against standard dressings on primary closed wounds following soft tissue sarcoma excision. Questions/Purposes: Does primary application of negative pressure dressing to closed wounds post soft tissue sarcoma excision reduce wound complications when compared to standard dressings? Level of evidence: Level I, Prospective RCT

Highlights

BackgroundSoft tissue sarcomas are rare tumours of mesenchymal cell origin representing under 1% of all adult tumours in the United Kingdom [1]
Tumour excision with negative margins is the ultimate goal following soft tissue sarcoma excision, but obtaining this goal can come at a cost with high wound complication rates reported
Principles of treatment have evolved over the last decade from primary amputation to limb preservation, with tumour resection and negative margins the ultimate goal [2]

Summary

Background

Soft tissue sarcomas are rare tumours of mesenchymal cell origin representing under 1% of all adult tumours in the United Kingdom [1]. Principles of treatment have evolved over the last decade from primary amputation to limb preservation, with tumour resection and negative margins the ultimate goal [2]. Large wounds with a disrupted vascular supply and lymphatic drainage may result in increased wound complications such as infection, dehiscence and delayed wound healing [3,4]. Wound problems remain one of the most common complications following resection of a soft tissue sarcoma and represent a major source. Does primary application of negative pressure dressing to closed wounds post soft tissue sarcoma excision reduce wound complications when compared to standard dressings?

Study design and setting

Ethical approval

Results

Discussion