Extrapleural pneumonectomy for sarcoma: outcomes of adult patients at a
specialized center and literature review.
Abstract
Background: Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP) is a complex surgical
procedure involving en-bloc resection of the parietal and visceral
pleura, lung, pericardium, and ipsilateral diaphragm. Small case series
of pleural-based sarcoma of predominantly paediatric patients suggest
EPP may be a life-prolonging surgical option. We aimed to describe the
characteristics and outcomes of adults who underwent EPP at a
specialized sarcoma center. Methods: Clinicopathologic variables,
surgical details and follow-up information were extracted for eight
patients undergoing EPP for pleural-based sarcoma between 2017-2020.
Primary outcomes were event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival
(OS) from the date of EPP. Secondary outcomes were disease-free interval
(DFI) prior to EPP, and early and late postoperative complications.
Results: At median follow-up of 22.5 months, median EFS was 6.0 months
and OS was 20.7 months. Six patients had disease recurrence; five
patients died of progressive disease. Two patients had not recurred: one
died of a radiation-related esophageal rupture, and one was alive with
no evidence of disease at 37.0 months. Characteristics of those with the
longest EFS included low-grade histology and achieving a metabolic
response to preoperative chemotherapy. Early postoperative complications
included one ventilator-associated pneumonia with new-onset atrial
fibrillation and two cases of hydropneumothorax. Late surgical
complications included a case of infective endocarditis and septic
shock. Conclusions: In adult sarcoma patients, EPP is rarely curative
but appears to be a feasible salvage procedure when performed at
specialized centers. Patient selection is critical, with a strong
consideration for multimodal treatment to optimize oncological outcomes.