Isolated limb infusion for melanoma: a simple alternative to isolated limb perfusion.
OBJECTIVE
To describe initial experience with the new technique of isolated limb infusion (ILI) for in-transit melanoma.


METHODS
A prospective case series.


METHODS
The major tertiary care oncology centre for the state of Victoria, Australia.


METHODS
Nine patients having for extensive in-transit limb melanoma


METHODS
All patients received ILI (13 treatments).


METHODS
Patient survival, response to treatment and complications of treatment.


RESULTS
There were no perioperative deaths and morbidity was limited to deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in 1 patient. Control of the in-transit metastases was achieved to some degree in all patients and was complete in 4.


CONCLUSIONS
ILI is an alternative treatment modality for patients suffering from multiple, advanced in-transit melanoma metastases. It provides effective palliation with limited morbidity and offers a safe, quick, inexpensive alternative to isolated limb perfusion with comparable results.
Mian
R
R
Bernard O'Brien Institute of Microsurgery, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia.
Henderson
M A
MA
Speakman
D
D
Finkelde
D
D
Ainslie
J
J
McKenzie
A
A
D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010478:Chemotherapy, Cancer, Regional Perfusion; D003609:Dactinomycin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D007261:Infusions, Intra-Arterial / Q000379:methods*; D007866:Leg / Q000098:blood supply; D008545:Melanoma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary; D008558:Melphalan / Q000008:administration & dosage; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology
D003609:Dactinomycin; D008558:Melphalan