38531 Biopsy or excision of lymph node(s); open, inguinofemoral node(s)

Name of the Procedure:

Biopsy or Excision of Lymph Node(s); Open, Inguinofemoral Node(s)

Summary

In this procedure, a surgeon removes one or more lymph nodes from the groin area (inguinofemoral region) to diagnose or treat possible medical conditions. The removal can be either a biopsy (small sample) or an excision (complete lymph node removal).

Purpose

The procedure aims to diagnose or treat potential infections, cancers, or other diseases affecting the lymph nodes. The goals are to identify the cause of lymph node abnormalities, provide relief from symptoms, or remove cancerous nodes to prevent the spread of cancer.

Indications

• Enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes in the groin area.
• Suspicion of cancer spread (metastasis) to lymph nodes.
• Infections or inflammations causing persistent swollen nodes.
• Unexplained groin pain or discomfort associated with lymph nodes.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to current medications as advised by the physician (e.g., blood thinners).
• Pre-procedure imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scans to locate the lymph nodes.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.
2. An incision is made in the groin area to access the lymph nodes.
3. The surgeon carefully dissects and removes the targeted lymph node(s).
4. The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the number of lymph nodes removed and the complexity of the surgery.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital's surgical suite or a specialized outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeons
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologists

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site.
• Bleeding or hematoma formation.
• Lymphedema (swelling due to lymph fluid buildup).
• Nerve damage causing numbness or weakness in the leg.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of lymph node-related conditions.
• Relief from symptoms caused by enlarged or infected lymph nodes.
• Potential prevention of cancer spread, leading to better overall outcomes.

Recovery

• Patients may experience mild to moderate pain, managed with prescribed painkillers.
• Instructions will include wound care, activity restrictions, and signs of complications to watch for.
• Most patients can return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, with follow-up visits scheduled to monitor healing and, if necessary, discuss pathology results.

Alternatives

• Fine needle aspiration (less invasive but may not provide as much information).
• Watchful waiting with regular monitoring (dependent on symptoms and underlying condition).
• Imaging-guided core needle biopsy (minimally invasive but sometimes less definitive).

Patient Experience

Patients will be under anesthesia during the procedure, so they won't feel pain. Post-procedure, they may experience groin discomfort, limited mobility, and some swelling. Pain management includes prescribed medications and rest, and adherence to post-operative care instructions will aid in a smoother recovery.