Long-term survival after radical resection of a primary angiosarcoma of the innominate vein

The case updated here demonstrates the longest survival that has been observed so far after radical resection of primary angiosarcoma of the left innominate vein, which is the second case that has ever been reported to date. Radical resection was performed after preoperative radiotherapy. The venous continuity was restored by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene graft interposition. This case underscores that the prognosis of primary venous sarcoma, though fatal in the majority of patients, may be better in individual cases when radical surgery with curative intention is achieved. (Ann Thorac Surg 2000;70:1713-4) (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.