Delays in Referral of Soft Tissue Sarcomas. (12th December 2007)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Johnson, G. D.; Smith, G.; Dramis, A.; Grimer, R. J.
• Other Names: Robinson Martin H. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Sarcoma. Volume 2008(2008)
• Publication Date: 2007-12-12
• Subjects: Sarcoma -- Periodicals; 616.994
• DOI: 10.1155/2008/378574
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1357-714X

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction and aims . It is well established that soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are more effectively treated in a specialist centre. However, delays in time taken for a patient to be referred to a specialist centre may lead to a poorer prognosis. This study aims to identify the length of these delays and where they occur. Patients and methods . Patients with a proven STS were included. They were recruited from both outpatient clinics and from the surgical ward of the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (Birmingham, UK). A structured interview was used to take a detailed history of the patients' treatment pathway, before arriving at the specialist centre. Dates given were validated using the case notes. Results . The median time for the patient to present to a specialist centre from the onset of symptoms was 40.4 weeks. The median delay until presentation to a medical professional (patient delay) was 1.3 weeks. Median delay in referral to a specialist centre (service delay) was 25.0 weeks. Discussion . Medical professionals rather than patients contribute the greatest source of delay in patients reaching a specialist centre for treatment of STS. Adherence to previously published guidelines could decrease this delay for diagnosis of possible sarcoma. Steps should be taken to refer patients directly to a diagnostic centre if they have symptoms or signs suggestive of STS.