Management of extra-abdominal fibromatosis in a musculoskeletal tumour centre in Hong Kong

Abstract

Introduction: Fibromatosis is a benign disease yet prone to recurrence. The best treatment option remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to analyse the management approach in our musculoskeletal tumour centre. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four patients with extra-abdominal fibromatosis referred to our centre between 2000 to 2018 were included. Patients’ demographics, tumour location and size, year of diagnosis, treatment modalities, surgical margins, recurrence, and subsequent management were analysed. Results: Patients mostly presented in the second and third decade, with female predominance. Twenty-seven patients underwent excision. Other management options included ‘watchful waiting’, pharmacological treatment and radiotherapy. Recurrence rate was 51.9%. There was no statistically significant relationship between marginal status and recurrence. Conclusion: We report our experiences on management of fibromatosis, with strategy shifted from early excision to a conservative approach over the years. Surgical excision is still indicated in some situations. Tumour recurrence is not rare but second excision is not always necessary.