Tumors of the upper extremity may cause extensive soft tissue and bone destruction and extend into the main neurovascular bundle. In those extreme situations, limb sparing may not be feasible, and amputation is required to achieve wide margins of resection and local tumor control.

Above-elbow amputations may be required for advanced soft tissue and bone sarcomas of the forearm and around the elbow (FIG 1A); below-elbow amputations are performed for such tumors of the forearm and the hand (FIG 1B).

Above- and below-elbow amputations are rarely done because the upper arm, elbow, and forearms are rare location for musculoskeletal tumors and because tumors at that site are noticed in relatively early stages and in most cases are resectable. Furthermore, administration of preoperative chemotherapy and availability of isolated limb perfusion have allowed to control the majority of patients that present with a large tumor.

Nonetheless, above- and below-elbow amputations retain a definitive role in the management of soft tissue and bone tumors of the upper extremity.

Above-elbow amputations can be metaphyseal (high), diaphyseal, or supracondylar (see FIG 1A).

High above-elbow amputations are those proximal to the deltoid tuberosity. Patients who undergo amputation proximal to the insertions of the deltoid and pectoralis major muscles have far greater difficulties adjusting to their prosthesis than do those who have undergone a more distal amputation.

Below-elbow amputations should preserve the maximal length of both radius and ulna. Although tumors of the hand are treated by a standard below-elbow amputation, performed through the distal third of the forearm, tumors of the distal forearm require a higher amputation and warrant special consideration. A minimum of 2.5 to 3 cm of bony stump, measured from the radial tuberosity, is required to preserve function. Additional length in a very short stump can be obtained by releasing the biceps tendon; adequate flexion of the stump will be provided by the brachialis muscle.