17263 Destruction, malignant lesion (eg, laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, surgical curettement), trunk, arms or legs; lesion diameter 2.1 to 3.0 cm

Name of the Procedure:

Destruction of Malignant Lesion (e.g., Laser Surgery, Electrosurgery, Cryosurgery, Chemosurgery, Surgical Curettage), Trunk, Arms, or Legs; Lesion Diameter 2.1 to 3.0 cm

Summary

This procedure involves the destruction of malignant skin lesions on the trunk, arms, or legs using various methods such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, or surgical curettage. The lesion in question is between 2.1 to 3.0 cm in diameter.

Purpose

The procedure addresses skin cancer or other malignant skin lesions. The goal is to eliminate the cancerous cells, prevent their spread, and promote healing of the affected area.

Indications

• Presence of a malignant skin lesion measuring between 2.1 to 3.0 cm in diameter.
• Symptoms may include growth, color change, or bleeding of the lesion.
• Appropriate for patients with confirmed malignant skin lesions, particularly when other treatments are not suitable.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours before the procedure, depending on anesthesia use.
• Inform the doctor of any medications, as some may need to be adjusted.
• Pre-procedure assessments include a detailed medical history and skin examination, possibly a biopsy.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be positioned comfortably, and the area around the lesion will be cleaned and sterilized.
2. Depending on the method used, the procedure may involve:
   • Laser Surgery: A focused beam of light destroys the lesion.
   • Electrosurgery: Electrical currents generate heat to destroy tissue.
   • Cryosurgery: Liquid nitrogen freezes the lesion, causing cell death.
   • Chemosurgery: Chemotherapeutic agents are applied directly to the lesion.
   • Surgical Curettage: A curette is used to scrape away the lesion.
3. Local anesthesia is commonly used to minimize discomfort.
4. The process ensures complete removal of the malignant tissue.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

It is often performed in an outpatient clinic, a dermatologist's office, or a surgical center.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or surgeon
• Nursing staff
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation or general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: pain, redness, swelling, minor bleeding, infection.
• Rare complications: scarring, changes in skin pigmentation, persistent pain, incomplete removal requiring additional treatment.

Benefits

• Effective removal of malignant skin lesions.
• Minimally invasive with relatively quick recovery.
• Reduces the risk of cancer spreading.

Recovery

• The treated area may be bandaged; keep it clean and dry.
• Follow care instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Typically mild discomfort; pain relief can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
• Healing usually occurs within a few weeks.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor healing and check for recurrence.

Alternatives

• Surgical excision: cutting out the lesion and surrounding tissue.
• Radiation therapy: particularly for larger or more aggressive lesions.
• Topical treatment: using prescribed creams or ointments.
• Comparison: Destruction procedures are less invasive and often have quicker recovery times compared to surgical excision but may not be suitable for all lesion types.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients may feel mild discomfort or pressure; local anesthesia helps minimize pain.
• After the procedure: Expect some redness and swelling; follow pain management instructions.
• Emotional support may be needed due to the diagnosis and treatment of a malignant lesion.