What should you know about isolated limb perfusion melanoma?

During surgery, the blood flow to the selected limb is separated from the rest of the circulation using tubes and a tourniquet. Heated medicine is circulated through that limb for a planned period, then washed out before normal circulation is restored. The aim is to deliver regional treatment to melanoma that is difficult to manage with local surgery alone.

It is not appropriate for every melanoma. The team considers the location and extent of disease, limb function, general health, previous treatment, and whether cancer has spread elsewhere. Assessment may include examination, scans, and staging tests such as a Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy when relevant.

Ask the surgical oncology team how the limb will be assessed before and after treatment, what medicines need adjustment, and how mobility will be supported. Swelling, redness, discomfort, bruising, and changes in sensation can occur during recovery; the team will explain which findings are expected and how to manage them.

Follow wound-care and activity instructions closely, attend scheduled reviews, and report changes rather than waiting for the next appointment. Depending on the wider treatment plan, surgery, immunotherapy, or structured follow-up may also be discussed.

Contact the treating team urgently for a rapidly enlarging limb, severe or escalating pain, a cold or pale hand or foot, new weakness or numbness, heavy bleeding, fever, spreading redness, wound discharge, chest pain, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms can signal a circulation problem, infection, clot, or another complication needing prompt assessment.

Why is regional perfusion being considered for my melanoma? What other options fit my stage and goals? How will circulation and limb function be monitored? How long might recovery take? Which symptoms are expected, and who should I call after discharge?