Sarcoma treatment with limb amputation surgery

Limb amputation surgery is sometimes the only way to save a patient's life if the sarcoma has spread to important blood vessels, nerves, or muscles. In some cases, it is necessary because cancer came back in the same limb after the previous gentle surgery. Before the operation, the patient must undergo diagnostic tests to assess his physical and psychological condition. Then, the oncologist uses imaging techniques such as CT to determine the amputation area to remove the sarcoma and preserve healthy tissue. Next, a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and prosthetists works with the patient. Sarcoma removal is performed under general anesthesia. The patient's heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored throughout the operation. Next, the surgeon treats the surgical field with antiseptic, makes incisions, and separates the soft tissues. After that, it removes the sarcoma and the healthy tissues adjacent to it. Working with vessels and nerves is of great importance. Therefore vascular surgeons and neurosurgeons often take part in the operation. Finally, the surgeon uses muscles, soft tissues, and skin to form a cuff around the bone. The stitches are applied in a place where they will not come into contact with the future prosthesis. After the operation, the patient undergoes a carefully planned individual rehabilitation program.