Surgical Treatment of Pulmonary Artery Angiosarcoma - A Ten-Year Experience.

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary artery angiosarcoma is a rare and extremely severe tumor. Our study summarizes the clinical data of patients treated for pulmonary artery angiosarcoma over the period of 2010-2020.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed cases of surgical treatment of patients with diagnosis of pulmonary artery angiosarcoma at our center. Data of operative findings, short-term follow-up, and the long-term results were reviewed where available.

Results: The 30-day mortality rate was six (67%) out of nine patients. Three (33%) patients were discharged. Data on pulmonary vascular resistance in the earlyand long-term postoperative periods were assessed if possible. Certain computed tomography signs have been identified that can be used to suspect pulmonary artery angiosarcoma and make a differential diagnosis with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.

Conclusion: The surgical treatment of choice is pneumonectomy with contralateral pulmonary endarterectomy. Oncological vigilance regarding angiosarcoma in occlusive-stenotic lesions of the pulmonary artery is extremely important. Patients' assessment must be carried out in an expert cardiothoracic surgery center with the involvement of an oncological crew.