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Beyond the depths: deep-seated lipoma of the upper limb

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European Journal of Plastic Surgery Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Background

Deep-seated lipomas are mature fat tissues which may occur in intermuscular, intramuscular, or submuscular locations. Unlike benign subcutaneous lipoma, which usually only grow on skin surface, deep-seated lipoma generally grow slowly and may sometimes infiltrate deeply and wrap around nerves.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients with deep-seated lipomas of the upper limb, operated on between 2002 and 2009 at our center, was carried out. Clinical and radiological characteristics, treatment, and evolution profile of these patients were also evaluated.

Results

Five patients were identified. The mean age of patients was 71 years (range 60 to 77 years). The mean follow-up period was 2 years and there was no recurrence after the surgery.

Conclusions

The complicated growing patterns of deep-seated lipoma have brought about difficulties during diagnostic and surgical procedures. A marked similarity of physical characteristics between a deep-seated lipoma and other soft-tissue masses can cause several confusions, while a careless dissection can cause severe damage to nearby nerves.

Level of Evidence: Level V, therapeutic study

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Queen Mary Hospital, 5/F, Professorial Block, Queen Mary Hospital, Pok Fu Lam, Hong Kong

    Chris Yuk Kwan Tang, Margaret Fok, Claire Lee & Boris Fung

Authors
  1. Chris Yuk Kwan Tang
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  2. Margaret Fok
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  3. Claire Lee
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  4. Boris Fung
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Chris Yuk Kwan Tang.

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Tang, C.Y.K., Fok, M., Lee, C. et al. Beyond the depths: deep-seated lipoma of the upper limb. Eur J Plast Surg 37, 29–32 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-013-0897-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-013-0897-1

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