Introduction: There is a strong association between poor overall survival and a short disease-free interval for patients with
soft tissue sarcomas (STS) and metastatic disease. Patients with STS and synchronous metastases should have a very dismal
prognosis.The role of surgery in this subgroup of patients with STS has not been defined.Patients and Methods: A single-institution retrospective review was performed of 48 patients with STS and synchronous
metastases in regard to patient demographics, presentation, tumor characteristics, metastatic sites, treatment, follow-up, and
survival over a 27-year period.Results: Most primary tumors were ≥10 cm (58%), high-grade histology (77%), and located on the extremity (60%).The
most frequent site of metastatic disease was the lung (63%); 27% of patients had metastases to ≥2 organ sites. Surgery to
the primary tumor was performed in 94% of patients (n = 45) and 68% had additional radiation therapy (n = 32). Thirty-
five percent of patients underwent at least one metastastectomy (n = 17). Chemotherapy was administered to 90% of patients
(n = 43); 31% received ≥3 different regimens (n = 15) and 25% were given intra-arterial or intracavitary therapy (n = 12).
Median overall survival was 15 months with a 21% 2-year survival. Local control of the primary tumor was achieved in 54%
(n = 26), and metastastectomy was performed in 35% (n = 17). No analyzed factors were associated with an improvement
in overall survivalConclusions: Despite multiple poor prognostic factors, the survival of patients with STS and metastases is comparable to
those who develop delayed metastatic disease. However, unlike patients who present with metachronous disease, there was
no improved survival observed for patients treated with metastastectomy. Consequently, treatment for patients with STS
and synchronous metastases should be approached with caution. Surgical management of STS with synchronous metastases
must be considered palliative and should be reserved for patients requiring palliation of symptoms. Patients must also
be well informed of the noncurative nature of the procedure.
