Laparoscopic insertion of pelvic tissue expander prior radiotherapy for sacral metastasis of alveolar maxillary rhabdomyosarcoma to prevent radiation enteritis

Abstract

Introduction: Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common soft tissue sarcoma seen in childhood and adolescence. The most frequent sites are head and neck.

Presentation of case: A young female with maxillary rhabdomyosarcoma involving region of maxillary sinus with skeletal metastases was primary treated acccording to RMS 2005 protocol. She received 9 cycles of chemotherapy. Primary tumor of maxillary sinus was surgicaly removed after 4 cycles of chemotherapy, with 6th cycle of chemotherapy a radical radiotherapy of primary tumor location and metastasis in spinal vertebras, ribs, pelvic bone and left femoral bone started what leads to complete regression of skeletal metastases. In course of maintenance therapy MRI scan showed 12 × 28 × 23 mm lesion in sacrum in the vicinity of right sacroiliacal joint with caracteristics of metastasis. Because the region of right sacroiliacal joint with bowel was already included in primary radiation treatment, tissue expander was laparoscopicaly inserted in lower pelvis to displace bowel loops from radiation field to prevent radiation enteritis. After external beam radiotherapy to her sacrum, a good response without any side effects was achieved.

Discussion: Laparoscopic insertion of pelvic tissue expander prior EBRT and it's subsequent removal after EBRT is safe and effective method for displacing loops of bowel out of the pelvis. With minimal morbidity converts untreatable disease to treatable by allowing delivering high doses of radiation to the patient.

Conclusion: After 2 years of follow up the disease is in remission and the patient without any major complaint.

Keywords: Laparoscopic insertion; Radiotherapy; Rhabdomyosarcoma; Tissue expander.