Limb Salvage For Malignant Tumors Of Shoulder Girdle

Objective To discuss the classification, resection and reconstruction after removal of malignant tumors of shoulder girdle. Methods Ten patients with malignant tumors of shoulder girdle underwent a limb-sparing resection according to Malawer's surgical classification system of shoulder girdle. Various reconstrucion procedures were performed for these patients affter operation. Results This group of patients underwent different limb salvage operations accoding to the locations and extents of their tumors. A follow-up of seven moths to five years was done. Eight survived and two died. The main functions of the elbow, forearm and hand of these patients in this group were remained. One patient underwent the operation that remained the body of scapula had less serious malformation, and the others had more serious malformation for total resection of scapula. Conclusion The key for a sucessful limp-sparing operation for malignant tumors of shoulder girdle is detailed preoprative evaluation and surgical plan. The main functions of the elbow, forearm and hand of most patients are remained.