Optimal maximum duration for delaying salvage operation when recurrence of retroperitoneal liposarcoma is suspected: a single-center study

Background This study was designed to identify the optimal maximum duration for delaying salvage operation when recurrence of retroperitoneal liposarcoma (LPS) is suspected. Methods Patients who underwent salvage operation at Samsung Medical Center for recurrent retroperitoneal LPS from January 2000 to December 2015 were reviewed. The time interval between recurrence and operation for recurrence was divided by 1, 2 or 3 months. A Cox proportional-hazards model was used to analyze factors related to disease-free survival along with recurrence-to-operation interval divided by 1, 2 or 3 months. Results The 1-, 3-, and 5-year disease-free survival rates were 43.2%, 15.6% and 13.4%, respectively. FNCLCC grade ( p = 0.023) and recurrence-to-operation interval divided by 3 months ( p = 0.003) were significant factors associated with recurrence. FNCLCC grade 2 (HR 1.940, CI 0.935–4.026, p = 0.238) and grade 3 (HR 4.049, CI 1.767–9.281, p = 0.007) showed increased risk compared to grade 1. Patients who underwent salvage operation more than 3 months after recurrence showed significantly increased risk of recurrence compared to patients within 3 months (HR 2.724, CI 1.391–5.337, p = 0.003). Conclusions Based on our analysis of recurrence-free survival, salvage operation can be delayed for less than 3 months when recurrence is suspected. A short-term follow-up imaging study should be performed within this period.