Extremity sarcoma surgery in younger children: ten years of patients ten years and under.

Sarcoma surgeons face unique challenges in younger patients with significant skeletal growth remaining. The heightened concerns regarding radiation in the very young and the drastic changes expected in the lengths and cross-sectional areas of bones affect the decision-making for both soft-tissue and bone sarcomas in this population. Nonetheless, there is sparse literature focused on sarcoma surgery in this age group. The records of one tertiary regional sarcoma treatment program were reviewed to identify all patients ten years old or younger at the time of local control surgery for limb or limb-girdle sarcomas. Demographic information, diagnosis, surgery performed, complications, and general outcomes were gleaned from the medical records. 43 patients were identified, including 15 with osteosarcomas, 11 Ewing's sarcoma family tumors, five rhabdomyosarcomas, and two synovial sarcomas, among others. Location of tumors varied widely, but demonstrated a predilection for the upper extremity more than is typical in adolescents with the same tumor types. Survival was favorable overall, with only five patients dying from disease. Most patients continued to function well at latest follow-up, but 16 experienced additional surgical interventions following the index procedure. Sarcoma surgery in the younger growing child presents challenges for the surgeon, patient, and parents, but is usually successful in the long-term.