Diagnostic Approach to a Soft Tissue Mass
10.4055/jkoa.2019.54.4.293
- Author:
Young Soo CHUN
1
;
Seung Hyun SONG
Author Information
1. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyung Hee University Hospital at Gangdong, College of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea. mozart13@khu.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
soft tissue neoplasm;
diagnostic approach;
biopsy
- MeSH:
Ambulatory Care Facilities;
Angiography;
Biopsy;
Diagnosis, Differential;
Epidemiology;
Extremities;
Follow-Up Studies;
Hand;
Magnetic Resonance Imaging;
Physical Examination;
Positron-Emission Tomography;
Radiography;
Referral and Consultation;
Soft Tissue Neoplasms;
Surgeons;
Torso;
Triage;
Ultrasonography
- From:The Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
2019;54(4):293-301
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Soft tissue masses of the extremities and torso are a common problem encountered by orthopaedic surgeons. Although these soft tissue masses are often benign, orthopaedic surgeons need to recognize the key features differentiating benign and malignant masses. An understanding of the epidemiology and clinical presentation of soft tissue masses is needed to develop a practical approach for evaluation and surgical management. Size and depth are the two most important factors on which triage decisions should be based. In a differential diagnosis of a tumor, it is important to know the characteristics of the soft tissue mass through detailed history taking and physical examinations before the diagnostic procedures. A variety of imaging studies, such as simple radiography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, computed tomography, bone scan, and angiography can be used to diagnose tumors. Know the ledge of advantages and disadvantages of each imaging study is essential for confirming the characteristics of the tumor that can be observed in the image. In particular, ultrasonography is convenient because it can be performed easily in an outpatient clinic and its cost is lower than other image studies. On the other hand, the accuracy of the test is affected by the skill of the examiner. A biopsy should be performed to confirm the tumor and be performed after all imaging studies have been done but before the final treatment of soft tissue tumors. When a biopsy is to be performed, careful attention to detail with respect to multidisciplinary coordination beforehand, cautious execution of the procedure to minimize complications, and expedient follow-up and referral to a musculoskeletal oncologist when appropriate, are essential.
