Tumors Ventral to the Sacrum

Tumors arising ventral to the sacrum probably arise from remnants of fetal structures. The most important fetal changes in this region include the development and subsequent disappearance of the notochord, neurenteric canal, proctodeum and hindgut. The subjective symptoms of tumor ventral to the sacrum are not definitely suggestive but include pain in the sacral region, constipation, and vesical and rectal incontinence. Rectal examination revealed the mass in each case in which it was made. It is the most important single diagnostic procedure. The most satisfactory treatment of such tumors is surgical excision through a modified Kraske type of posterior incision. In the case of malignant tumors complete removal is often difficult and radiotherapy may help to relieve pain and to prolong life. The incidence of recurrence is high, and recurrence is usually local. The prognosis varies with the type of tumor, being poor in instances of malignancy.