33rd Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

Introduction
Large soft tissue sarcoma (STS) about the elbow can be challenging to manage. There can be limited redundant skin available for closure. The high mobility of the site and the proximity to the chest wall can interfere with bandaging strategies. The thin fascial covering about the elbow can prevent incorporation of robust tumour barriers. The purpose of this study was to describe wound healing complications and outcomes for dogs undergoing STS resection about the elbow.

Materials and Methods
Clinical records of 70 dogs with STS about the elbow were reviewed. Data retrieved included tumour characteristics, resection margin and closure method. Any wound healing complications were recorded, including how closure was finally achieved and the time taken for resolution. Long-term outcomes for all dogs were obtained, including tumour recurrence and survival.

Results
Tumours ranged from 10-80mm in size. Amputation was performed in 8 cases. En bloc resection with a variety of lateral margins was performed in the remainding patients. Primary wound closure was performed in 43%, with subdermal or axial pattern flaps used in 28% and 9% of cases respectively. Wound healing complications occurred in 30 (43%) of cases; up to 75% of subdermal and axial pattern flaps developed healing complications. All but one wound eventually healed successfully. Time to achieve closure was 37 (12-121) days. Local recurrence developed in 7 cases (10%), with a mean disease-free interval of 195 (27-596) days.

Discussion
High rates of wound healing complications occur following resection of elbow STS. However, good long term outcomes are possible.