How Sarcoma Surgery Works: Tumor Removal & Function Preservation - with Prof. Dr. Jakob

How is a soft tissue sarcoma on the thigh operated? Prof. Jakob explains step by step how surgeons remove the tumor (R0 resection) while preserving mobility. Learn how MRI, CT, and surgical planning guide this complex procedure.
Original auf Deutsch ist hier:    • Operation eines Weichteilsarkoms am Obersc...  
How is a soft tissue sarcoma on the thigh operated on? In this video, Prof. Dr. Jens Jakob from the University Hospital Mannheim explains step by step how surgeons remove a sarcoma while preserving mobility and quality of life. Using a real case, he shows how careful planning and precise surgical techniques make it possible to achieve complete tumor removal (R0 resection) and still protect essential muscles, nerves, and vessels.
Detailed Description
Sarcoma surgery is one of the most complex procedures in orthopedic oncology. The goal is always to remove the tumor completely while maintaining as much function as possible. In this film, Prof. Jakob explains the process in detail, using the example of a soft tissue sarcoma in the thigh.
Key aspects of the surgery include:
Preoperative planning with MRI and CT scans
Assessment of tumor location near adductors, quadriceps, femur, and major vessels
Functional considerations: how much muscle can be spared without losing mobility?
Protection of blood vessels: femoral artery and vein must be preserved to ensure circulation
Combination with radiotherapy: when preoperative or postoperative radiation is used
Risks in older patients, especially bone fractures after radiation
Prof. Jakob shows how surgeons at specialized sarcoma centers develop individualized surgical strategies to balance tumor safety with function. Even if part of the quadriceps must be removed, patients can usually walk, climb stairs, and drive with only minor limitations.
This video offers a rare, understandable insight into the decision-making process of sarcoma surgery and highlights why treatment at experienced centers is so important.

With Prof. Dr. Jens Jakob (University Hospital Mannheim) and Karin Strube (Strube Foundation)
A film by the Strube Foundation in cooperation with the German Sarcoma Foundation.
Consultation by patient representatives: Susanne Gutermuth and Odette Helbig.
Coordination by Katja Winter

0:00 Intro
0:21 Goal of the surgery: tumor removal and preservation of function
1:02 Planning with MRI and CT images
2:50 Tumor involvement of adductors and quadriceps
3:29 Importance of the quadriceps for mobility
4:05 Proximity to blood vessels – a critical point
6:00 Role of radiation therapy in surgical planning
6:47 Risks in older patients – risk of fracture
7:08 Choice of surgical approach
7:55 Vascular imaging and protection against bleeding