What are the treatment options for soft tissue sarcoma?

Soft tissue sarcomas can develop in muscle, fat, connective tissue, blood vessels, or other supporting tissue. Treatment depends on the sarcoma subtype, its size, depth, position, and whether it has spread. A specialist team reviews imaging and biopsy findings before recommending a sequence.

Tumour removal surgery aims to take out the sarcoma with a surrounding margin while preserving useful movement where possible. Radiotherapy may be used before or after surgery to treat the tumour area. Chemotherapy travels through the bloodstream and may be considered for selected sarcoma types or when disease has spread.

Ask whether the goal is to remove the tumour, reduce the chance of local return, control disease elsewhere, or ease symptoms. Tell the team about pain, swelling, weakness, reduced movement, and any change in the lump. Rehabilitation may support strength and function after treatment, especially when surgery involves a limb or nearby joint.

You can read about [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/), [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/), and [Chemotherapy](/treatments/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy/) before your appointment.

Seek prompt advice for rapidly increasing swelling, new severe pain, sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty moving a limb, fever, or a wound that becomes red or drains. If you develop chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or coughing blood, seek emergency care immediately.

What sarcoma subtype was found, and where is it located? Can surgery remove it while preserving function? Would radiotherapy be given before or after surgery? Is chemotherapy relevant to this subtype or its extent? Who will coordinate rehabilitation and symptom support?