Effective management of extremity cancers using cisplatin and etoposide in isolated limb perfusions.

Four cases of extremity cancers received effective management with cisplatin and etoposide via isolated limb perfusion. They demonstrated minimal, if any, soft tissue damage. This result counters the theory that a caustic response is a prerequisite for successful therapy. This characteristic allows for simultaneous surgical resection with regional, isolated limb perfusion of potent cytotoxic agents without increased morbidity from tissue necrosis, a common consequence of previously used drugs. There is no apparent affect on wound healing, even in cases involving extensive, radical operative procedures.