The value of resection in tumors involving the chest wall

Sixty-eight cases of chest wall resection for malignant disease are presented. The operative and 30 day mortality rate was 7 per cent, and the cumulative 5 year survival rate was 34 per cent; the median survival period was 13 months. Fifty per cent of the patients had no postoperative morbidity. Temporary respiratory support was required in 22 per cent. Excess secretions and their sequelae were responsible for the majority of the complications which did occur. Wound complications were relatively less frequent than pulmonary problems. Prior radiotherapy or surgery to the operative site did not increase the morbidity of the procedure. Chest wall involvement in patients with malignant disease does not preclude a reasonable period of survival after resection and does provide good palliation.