1998 Volume 12 Issue 2 Pages 193-198
A 71-year-old female was admitted to our hospital for further examination of an anterior median chest wall mass with gradual growth and slight pain for 4 years in September 1996. A smooth, elastic hard and unmovable mass was recognized on the upper portion of the sternum. The mass was measured 11×9 cm. Chest MRI showed a tumor of the manubrium invading the body of the sternum and bilateral clavicle. Bone scintillation film showed a strong accumulation in the manubrium. Other various examinations showed no abnormal findings in other organs. Aspiration needle biopsy revealed a primary sternal chondrosarcoma. At operation the sternum was cut just above the adherent portion to the 4th ribs as the upper end, and removed including median half parts of the bilateral clavicle and bilateral median parts of the 1st to 3rd ribs. The line of resection was 3cm beyond the margin of the tumor. The skeletal reconstruction was performed using doubled soft Marlex mesh. Bilateral pectoral major muscles were mobilized and approximated on the soft Marlex mesh.
Postoperatively, the pulmonary function, and mobility of the bilateral upper extremities and neck were not reduced. The patient is alive and well without any sign of recurrence 9 months after the operation.
