Specialised treatment for soft tissue sarcoma
A soft tissue sarcoma is a rare malignant cancer that forms in the soft tissues. It may present as a painless lump in the soft tissues, and may occur in fat, muscle, nerves, skin tissue, blood tissue and the tissue that surrounds the joints. While it can occur at any age, it’s most common in people over 55 years old.
soft tissue sarcoma frequently asked questions
What are the signs and symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma?
Soft tissue sarcoma is often asymptomatic in its early stages. As it grows a painless lump forms which, over time, may cause pressure on surrounding structures such as nerves and muscles, and then cause pain.
What are the causes of soft tissue sarcoma?
The causes of most sarcomas are not known, but risks may be increased if:
- They have been previously treated with radiotherapy. Most people who have radiotherapy will not develop cancer, but the risk is higher if they had high doses at a young age
- There is a genetic predisposition, or family history of cancer
How is soft tissue sarcoma diagnosed?
Your Doctor will do a physical examination and take a medical history, they may request some of the following tests:
- Blood test
- X-ray
- CT or MRI scans
- PET scan
- Biopsy
What are the treatment options for soft tissue sarcoma?
Your treatment will be specific to your case.
After careful history and physical examination, your surgeon will order appropriate tests, in order to get more information on the tumour, and also to determine if the tumour has spread to other parts of the body.
Sometimes a biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is a sample of tissue, taken from the tumour. This is sent to a pathologist who examines the tissue under a microscope in order to confirm the diagnosis. Your case may also be discussed amongst a team of cancer specialists at an MDT (Multi-Disciplinary Team) Meeting prior to elaborating a treatment plan.
Your surgeon will discuss your particular treatment plan in detail and answer any questions you may have at your appointment.
Oncology treatments
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy refers to the administration of certain medications to kill cancer cells. Sometimes, they are given before surgery (also called neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumour and make it easier to be removed. It also treats any microscopic disease (kills
Oncology Surgery
With the development of newer chemotherapy regimes, most sarcomas can be treated with limb sparing surgery (without the need for amputation). For bone sarcomas, the tumour is removed, and the bone defect is then reconstructed with either a megaprosthesis (a
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy is a form of radiation that is used to kill tumour cells. It may be used for unresectable tumours (where surgery is not possible), or to kill residual cells when the tumour can only be partially removed. Potential risks
Why Orthopaedics SA?
Comprehensive care
From arthritis to sports injuries, we treat a full spectrum of bone and joint conditions to keep you moving.
Expert surgeons
Our highly trained doctors have years of experience delivering precise and effective treatments.
SA’s largest practice
With 23 specialists, we offer unmatched expertise and evidence-based care for every patient.
Multiple locations
We have multiple clinics across South Australia, making it simple to find expert care nearby.
Patient-centric approach
We prioritise understanding your condition to ensure every treatment recommendation feels right for you.
Reliable support
Our team of nurses and administrative staff works behind the scenes to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Meet our doctors
Our surgeons are highly qualified to offer personalised treatments tailored to your needs. We take the time to listen, explain your options, and ensure every decision is made with your well-being in mind.
We take responsibility for our patient’s experience
From your initial consultation to follow-up care, our team will guide you through every step of your treatment. Your specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan, including physical therapy to restore function and prevent future injuries.