Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Treatment in Hollywood, FL
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Among the many types of soft tissue sarcomas, retroperitoneal sarcoma is one of the most difficult to manage because it’s often large at the time it’s diagnosed and located in a spot that makes surgery difficult. Robert Donoway, MD, FACS, at Atlas Oncology is one of only a few experts performing the NanoKnife® procedure, giving you a potential treatment option for difficult retroperitoneal sarcomas. If you develop a lump in your abdomen, call (305) 343 3886 or book a consultation online.
Request an AppointmentWhat Makes Retroperitoneal Sarcoma So Challenging
Retroperitoneal sarcomas develop in the retroperitoneum, the space behind the abdominal cavity that houses the kidneys, major blood vessels, and other vital structures. Because this area has room for tumors to grow undetected, retroperitoneal sarcomas are often quite large — sometimes several inches across — before they cause symptoms like abdominal fullness, a palpable lump, back pain, or digestive changes.
Their size and location near the aorta, vena cava, kidneys, and other critical structures make complete surgical removal technically demanding, and in many cases, the tumor is considered inoperable due to its proximity to these vessels. Even when surgery is possible, retroperitoneal sarcomas have a notable tendency to recur locally, which is why ongoing monitoring and a range of treatment options matter.
NanoKnife as a Treatment Option
For retroperitoneal sarcomas that can’t be safely removed with surgery, the NanoKnife procedure offers a minimally invasive alternative. By using targeted electrical pulses instead of heat or a scalpel, NanoKnife can destroy tumor tissue while preserving the surrounding blood vessels and organs that make this region so difficult to operate on.
Dr. Donoway draws on his broader experience treating sarcoma and advanced extremities sarcoma when evaluating retroperitoneal cases, tailoring each treatment plan to the tumor’s exact size, location, and your overall health. If you’ve noticed persistent abdominal swelling or discomfort, don’t wait to have it evaluated. View our complete cancer treatment services, or find out what to expect as a new patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is retroperitoneal sarcoma?
Retroperitoneal sarcoma is a cancerous tumor that develops in the retroperitoneum, the space behind the abdominal cavity that contains the kidneys, major blood vessels, and other vital structures.
Why are retroperitoneal sarcomas often diagnosed late?
The retroperitoneum has ample space for a tumor to grow without pressing on nearby organs, so these sarcomas can become quite large before they cause noticeable symptoms like abdominal fullness or a palpable lump.
Why is retroperitoneal sarcoma often considered difficult or impossible to remove surgically?
These tumors sit close to critical structures like the aorta, vena cava, and kidneys, making complete surgical removal technically demanding and, in some cases, too risky to attempt.
Can the NanoKnife procedure treat retroperitoneal sarcoma?
Yes, NanoKnife can be an option for retroperitoneal sarcomas that are considered inoperable, using targeted electrical pulses to destroy tumor tissue while sparing nearby blood vessels and organs.
Does retroperitoneal sarcoma come back after treatment?
Retroperitoneal sarcomas have a notable tendency to recur locally even after treatment, which is why ongoing monitoring and imaging follow-up are an important part of long-term care.
What symptoms should prompt me to see a specialist about a possible retroperitoneal sarcoma?
Persistent abdominal swelling, a noticeable lump, unexplained abdominal or back pain, or changes in bowel habits that don’t resolve should be evaluated promptly.
How do I schedule a consultation for retroperitoneal sarcoma?
Call (305) 343 3886 or book online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Donoway at Atlas Oncology in Hollywood, FL
We do Not accept Mail at this address, do not send records until speaking to office and getting correct mailing address..