The efficacy of hyperthermia combined with radiation therapy for high-grade soft tissue sarcoma.

BACKGROUND

We have investigated the efficacy of preoperative hyperthermia combined with radiation therapy (HIRP) in cases of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) that could be consequently treated with limb salvage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirteen patients with STS in an extremity received HIRP at our institution. Local hyperthermia for 1 hour was administered eight to ten times. Radiation therapy (40-60 Gy) was administered at 2 Gy per session. The operation was performed at 2 or 3 weeks after HIRP.

RESULTS

Limb salvage surgery was achieved in 12 patients. No local recurrence was observed during a mean follow-up of 27 months. 7 patients had shown only a partial response to the HIRP. There was no correlation between the histological response and the observed reduction in tumor volume.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggested that HIRP was an effective local treatment for limb salvage in limb-threatening STS.