Call for improved design and reporting in soft tissue sarcoma studies: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of chemotherapy and survival outcomes in resectable STS

Abstract

New evidence and systemic therapies demand an updated analysis of chemotherapy for soft tissue sarcoma. We completed a meta‐analysis of chemotherapy in localized STS, assessing OS, PFS, and local and distant recurrence (local recurrence‐free survival [LRFS] and distant recurrence‐free survival [DRFS]). Ten studies, totaling 3157 patients, were included. A pooled analysis for 5‐year OS, progression‐free survival, LRFS, and DRFS showed no benefit of chemotherapy over locoregional therapy alone for all‐comers or site‐specific STS. We make recommendations to improve outcome reporting and quality indices.