Destruction, malignant lesion (eg, laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, surgical curettement), scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitalia; lesion diameter over 4.0 cm
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Destruction of Malignant Lesion (e.g., Laser Surgery, Electrosurgery, Cryosurgery, Chemosurgery, Surgical Curettement), Scalp, Neck, Hands, Feet, Genitalia; Lesion Diameter Over 4.0 cm
Summary
This procedure involves the removal or destruction of cancerous skin lesions located on sensitive areas like the scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitalia, where the lesion has a diameter larger than 4.0 cm. Techniques such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, and chemosurgery may be used.
Purpose
The purpose of this procedure is to treat malignant skin lesions to prevent the spread of cancer and minimize impact on surrounding tissues. The goal is to completely remove the cancerous cells while preserving the function and appearance of the affected area.
Indications
- Large (greater than 4.0 cm in diameter) malignant lesions
- Location on sensitive areas, including scalp, neck, hands, feet, or genitalia
- Malignant conditions like melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma
Preparation
- Fasting for a specified period if general anesthesia is planned
- Discontinuation of certain medications as advised by the physician
- Pre-procedure diagnostic tests like blood work or imaging might be required
Procedure Description
- Local or general anesthesia is administered.
- The selected method (laser, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, or surgical curettement) is applied to the lesion.
- The cancerous tissue is destroyed and removed.
- The area is treated to promote healing and prevent infection.
Tools and Equipment:
- Laser devices
- Electrosurgical units
- Cryosurgery tools (e.g., liquid nitrogen applicators)
- Chemosurgical agents
- Curettes and scalpel
Duration
Typically, the procedure lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the lesion's size and location.
Setting
This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital.
Personnel
- Dermatologist or surgeon
- Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia)
- Nurses and surgical assistants
Risks and Complications
- Common: Pain, infection, scarring
- Rare: Bleeding, nerve damage, incomplete removal of malignant tissue
Benefits
- Effective removal of cancerous tissue
- Reduced risk of cancer spreading
- Typically, rapid achievement of desired health outcomes
Recovery
- Post-procedure care includes wound management and monitoring for signs of infection
- Recovery time varies but is generally a few days to a couple of weeks
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure complete lesion removal
Alternatives
- Other treatments such as radiation therapy, conventional surgery, or topical treatments
- Each alternative has its own set of benefits and drawbacks that should be discussed with a healthcare provider
Patient Experience
- The patient may experience some discomfort during and after the procedure, which can be managed with pain medication
- Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days, though strenuous activities might need to be avoided for a short period
This markdown guide provides a structured overview of the procedure for destroying malignant lesions in sensitive areas, intended to inform both healthcare professionals and patients.