Detection: Approximately 30–40 per cent of all patients with sarcomas develop distant recurrence.

Treatment: Where possible, refer the patient to the original multidisciplinary team. Treatment will depend on location and extent of disease, previous management and patient preference.

Palliative care: Early referral can improve quality of life and in some cases survival. Referral should be based on need, not prognosis.

Communication – lead clinician to:

• explain the treatment intent, likely outcomes and side effects to the patient/carer.