11406 Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter over 4.0 cm

Name of the Procedure:

Excision of a Benign Lesion Including Margins (over 4.0 cm) on Trunk, Arms, or Legs

Summary

The excision of a benign lesion is a surgical procedure to remove a non-cancerous growth from the trunk, arms, or legs. The surgeon also removes a margin of healthy tissue around the lesion to ensure all abnormal cells are eliminated.

Purpose

This procedure is performed to remove benign (non-cancerous) lesions that may cause discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or other health issues due to their size or location. The main goal is to completely remove the lesion along with a margin of surrounding tissue to ensure it doesn't recur.

Indications

• Presence of a benign skin lesion larger than 4.0 cm
• Lesion causing discomfort, pain, or bleeding
• Cosmetic concerns
• Interference with normal movement or function

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours if sedation is planned.
• Blood tests or imaging studies might be required.
• Patients should inform their doctor about any medications they are taking, as some might need adjustment.

Procedure Description

1. The procedure starts with cleaning and draping the area around the lesion.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. The surgeon makes an incision around the lesion, removing the entire growth along with a margin of healthy tissue.
4. The excised tissue is sent to a lab for pathological examination.
5. The incision is then closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the lesion's size and location.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, minor surgical unit, or hospital.

Personnel

The procedure involves:

• A surgeon
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Scarring
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Pain or discomfort post-procedure
• Possible allergic reaction to anesthesia

Benefits

• Removal of the lesion and associated symptoms
• Improved cosmetic appearance
• Reduced risk of recurrence

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Keep the incision site clean and dry.
• Follow the surgeon’s instructions for wound care.
• Avoid strenuous activities until fully healed.
• Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.
• Full recovery generally takes about 1-2 weeks.

Alternatives

• Monitoring the lesion without surgical intervention
• Cryotherapy or laser therapy for smaller lesions
• Consideration of the pros and cons should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel pressure but no pain during the procedure due to local anesthesia.
• Post-procedure discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
• Itching or mild swelling at the incision site is common.
• Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, with full recovery in about 1-2 weeks.