The English language literature on retroperitoneal sarcomas published between 1981 and 1988 has been reviewed. The histology, different prognostic factors, value of imaging techniques, and need for multidisciplinary management are discussed. Complete surgical excision with tumor-free margins confirmed by histology is essential if long-term survival and local control are to be achieved. In many cases resection of adjacent organs is required as most patients present with advanced, aggressive local disease. The roles of adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy in the treatment of retroperitoneal sarcomas are uncertain and must await further controlled, randomized, prospective studies.