11402 Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter 1.1 to 2.0 cm

Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Benign Lesion with Margins (Trunk, Arms, or Legs) - 1.1 to 2.0 cm

Summary

This procedure involves surgically removing a non-cancerous lesion from the trunk, arms, or legs, including a margin of surrounding healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. The excised diameter of the lesion ranges from 1.1 to 2.0 centimeters.

Purpose

The goal is to remove benign lesions that may be causing discomfort, potential for malignancy, or are cosmetically undesirable. This procedure helps in preventing future complications and ensures complete removal to avoid recurrence.

Indications

• Presence of benign skin lesions like moles, cysts, or lipomas that cause discomfort, irritation, or cosmetic concerns.
• Lesions that have been biopsied and confirmed as benign but need complete excision.
• Lesions that could potentially become malignant if left untreated.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to avoid certain medications like blood thinners before the procedure.
• Fasting is usually not required unless sedation is planned.
• Preoperative evaluation includes physical examination and possibly imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The area around the lesion is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. A surgical incision is made around the lesion with a safety margin of healthy tissue.
4. The lesion is carefully excised and may be sent for pathology.
5. The surgical site is stitched up, and a sterile bandage is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a day surgery center.

Personnel

• Surgeon or Dermatologist
• Surgical Nurse
• Sometimes an Anesthesiologist (if sedation is required)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: bleeding, infection, scarring.
• Rare complications: allergic reaction to anesthesia, damage to nearby structures, hematoma.

Benefits

• Removal of potentially problematic lesions.
• Relief from symptoms caused by the lesion.
• Cosmetic improvement.

Recovery

• Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
• Follow specific wound care instructions provided by the healthcare team.
• Pain and discomfort are usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Stitches may be removed 1-2 weeks after the procedure.
• Full recovery typically occurs within a few weeks.

Alternatives

• Observation if the lesion is not causing harm.
• Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion).
• Laser treatment or electrosurgery.
• Each alternative has its pros and cons, mostly relating to effectiveness, recovery time, and risk of recurrence.

Patient Experience

• The patient will feel numbness during the procedure due to local anesthesia.
• There may be mild discomfort or pain post-procedure, manageable with pain medication.
• Slight swelling and bruising around the treated area.
• Patients are encouraged to follow up with their healthcare provider to ensure proper healing.