The efficacy of hyperthermia combined with radiation therapy for high-grade soft tissue sarcoma

Background: We have investigated the efficacy of preoperative hyperthermia combined with radiation therapy (HIRPI in cases of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) that could be consequently treated with limb salvage. Materials and Methods: Thirteen patients with STS in an extremity received HIRP at our institution. Local hyperthermia for I hour was administered eight to ten times. Radiation therapy (40-60Gy) was administered at 2 Gy per session. The operation was performed at 2 or 3 weeks after HIRP. Results: Limb salvage surgery was achieved in 12 patients. No local recurrence was observed during a mean follow-up of 27 months. 7 patients had shown only a partial response to the HIRP. There was no correlation between the histological response and the observed reduction in tumor volume. Conclusions: The results of this study suggested that HIRP was an effective local treatment for limb salvage in limb-threatening STS.