SOFT TISSUE TUMOURS

Soft tissue tumours are growths that develop within the body's connective tissues, including fat, muscle, nerve, blood vessel, and fibrous tissue. The majority of soft tissue tumours are benign (non-cancerous), such as lipomas and cysts, though some can be malignant (sarcomas) or have uncertain behaviour, which is why any new or changing lump warrants proper assessment.

At LIFEXCLINICS, soft tissue tumours are assessed and managed by Dr Robert George, a Specialist Soft Tissue Surgeon (MBBS MS FRACS) with extensive experience in the diagnosis and surgical management of soft tissue lumps and growths throughout the body.

Common types of soft tissue tumours:

• Lipomas — benign, slow-growing fatty lumps, among the most common soft tissue tumours
• Cysts — fluid- or keratin-filled sacs that can develop under the skin, including sebaceous and epidermoid cysts
• Fibromas — benign growths of fibrous connective tissue
• Neurofibromas — benign tumours arising from nerve tissue
• Vascular lesions — growths involving blood vessels, such as haemangiomas
• Sarcomas — a rarer form of malignant soft tissue tumour, requiring specialist assessment and management

Signs that warrant assessment:

While many soft tissue lumps are benign, certain features increase the importance of prompt clinical review, including:

• A lump that is growing in size
• A lump larger than 5cm
• Pain or tenderness associated with the lump
• A lump that feels firm, fixed, or deep beneath the skin
• Any lump that returns after previous removal
• New or unexplained lumps in adulthood

Diagnosis:

Assessment of a soft tissue lump typically involves a thorough clinical examination, followed by imaging such as ultrasound or MRI where indicated, to characterise the lump and determine the most appropriate next step. In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to obtain a tissue diagnosis prior to definitive treatment, particularly where there is any uncertainty about the nature of the lump.

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the type, size, location, and nature of the tumour. Many benign soft tissue tumours can be surgically removed on an outpatient basis, often under local anaesthesia. Where a tumour is larger, deeper, or shows features requiring more caution, further investigation and a more comprehensive surgical plan may be recommended, with coordination alongside other specialists where needed.

A personalised approach:

Every soft tissue lump is different, and accurate diagnosis is the foundation of appropriate treatment. Dr Robert George brings a thorough, careful approach to the assessment and management of soft tissue tumours, supported by our clinical team, including throughout your journey from initial assessment to recovery.

If you've noticed a new or changing lump, please contact our clinic to arrange an assessment.