Characterization of Soft Tissue Sarcoma Microscopic Extension
The goal of the study is to assess the microscopic extension of soft tissue sarcomas. The enrollment will be limited to dogs cytologically or histologically diagnosed soft tissue sarcomas that are undergoing a wide excision. Wide surgical excision, defined as three-centimeter lateral margins and of layer of fascia (dense tissue) deep to the mass, will be performed as the standard of care. While under general anesthesia and immediately prior to routine surgery, sterile tattoo ink will be used to mark specific margins around the tumor. All tattoo ink will be within the tumor sample and planned margin with no tattoo ink applied outside the tissue to be removed.
Client Compensation:
There are no additional costs associated with the study beyond those acquired through routine care for the underlying condition. The study provides only costs toward the surgical procedure (mass removal) itself and the histopathology (biopsy) charges. This combination of charges would typically be $441-$1074 depending on tumor size. All other costs are the responsibility of the owner.
Potential Medical Benefits:
Dogs participating in the study may not directly benefit from participating; however, the potential information gained from the study may advance diagnostics and treatments of dogs with soft tissue sarcomas in the future. Results of this study will not be available immediately.
Potential Medical Risks:
There are rare reports of allergic reactions to tattoo ink in people; this is not documented in dogs. Given that all of the tattoo ink applied to the field is planned to be excised along with the tumor, this risk is thought to be very low; however, it may appear as redness, swelling, heat, pain, and discharge or up to an anaphylactic reaction. All other complications are related to the surgical procedure itself and not anticipated to be due to the research intervention. General surgical complications for wide excision of a soft tissue sarcoma and general anesthesia include aspiration pneumonia, drug reactions, hypotension, cardiopulmonary arrest, bleeding, infection, development of metastatic disease, opening of the incision (dehiscence), and need for bandaging. It is possible that enrolled dogs may experience unexpected side-effects. It is possible that enrolled dogs' condition may not improve or may worsen. My dog will be observed closely for side effects and appropriate medical care will be provided.
What qualifies my pet for enrollment?
Inclusion Criteria:
- Tumor consistent with soft tissue sarcoma on cytologic evaluation or incisional biopsy.
- Wide excision (at least 3-cm lateral margins) of mass performed.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Surgery for recurrence or revision of previous definitive surgery.
- Planned surgical margins of less than 3-cm lateral margins.
Diagnosis/Condition Being Studied: Soft tissue sarcomas
Intervention to Be Studied: No direct intervention will be performed.
PRE-SCREENING QUESTIONAIRE
If you believe your pet may be eligible for this trial, please complete a pre-screening questionnaire.