Radical resection of giant chondrosarcoma of the anterior chest wall

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Chondrosarcomas represent approximately 30% of primary malignant bone tumors, the most frequent of which is on anterior thoracic wall. CASE REPORT: We presented a case of 50-year-old man suffering from a slow-growing, painless giant chondrosarcoma of the anterior chest wall. A wide resection was performed to excise the tumor including attached skin, right breast, ribs, sternum, soft tissues and parietal pleura. Mediastinum was not affected by the tumor. After resecting a 26 x 20 x 22 cm segment, the chest wall defect was reconstructed with a Marlex mesh and extensive latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap pedicled on the right thoracodorsal vessels. Histopathology diagnosis was chondrosarcoma G 2-3. The mechanics of ventilation was not altered and respiratory function was normal from the immediate postoperative period. Three years after the operation postoperative results showed no local recurrence and excellent functional and aesthetic results were evident. Respiratory function remained unaltered. CONCLUSION: According to the results it can be concluded that the use of Marlex mash and myocutaneous flap is good method for stabilization of the chest wall and enough to avoid paradoxical respiratory movements in managing giant chondrosarcoma of the anterior chest wall.