Initial experiences with isolated limb perfusion for unresectable melanoma of the limb

Aims: Our initial results with isolated limb perfusion (ILP) using melphalan ± TNF alpha in patients with unresectable melanoma of the limb were analyzed. Methods: 15 ILPs were performed between 2001 and 2006. Indications for ILP were stage III or IV metastatic melanoma. Complete and partial response rates, time to local and systemic tumour progression rates, disease free and overall survival rates were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Overall response rate was 93%, with a 67% complete response and a 26% partial response rate. In eight cases grade II, while in six cases grade III local toxicity was detected. However, one mortality was detected in the early postoperative phase due to a grade V complication. With a mean follow-up period of 2.7 years, eight patients had local progression and in four of those, systemic progression was detected. Conclusions: ILP was generally well tolerated and limb salvage was achieved in all cases.