Excision, lesion of palate, uvula; with simple primary closure
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Excision, Lesion of Palate, Uvula; with Simple Primary Closure
Summary
This medical procedure involves the surgical removal of a lesion (or abnormal growth) found on the palate (the roof of the mouth) or the uvula (the small, fleshy extension at the back of the throat). After removing the lesion, the surgical area is closed using simple primary closure techniques, which typically involves stitching the wound to assist in proper healing.
Purpose
The procedure addresses abnormal growths or lesions that may be benign or malignant and could cause discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or other complications if left untreated. The goal is to completely remove the lesion, alleviate symptoms, and reduce the risk of potential malignancy or recurrence.
Indications
- Presence of a benign or malignant lesion on the palate or uvula.
- Symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems.
- Recurrent infections or ulcers in the affected area.
- Biopsy results indicating a neoplastic growth.
Preparation
- Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure.
- Necessary blood work and imaging studies (e.g., CT scan or MRI) to determine the extent of the lesion.
- Review of current medications, with instructions to discontinue blood thinners or other medications as advised.
- Preoperative consultation with the surgeon and anesthesiologist.
Procedure Description
- The patient is positioned appropriately, usually in a reclined surgical chair.
- Anesthesia is administered; local anesthesia for minor lesions or general anesthesia for larger, more complex cases.
- The surgeon uses a scalpel or laser to excise the lesion carefully.
- The wound site is closed with sutures, ensuring that the area is sealed well to promote healing.
- The area is monitored for immediate post-operative bleeding or complications.
Duration
The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the lesion.
Setting
This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center equipped with surgical suites.
Personnel
- Surgeons (typically a head and neck or oral surgeon)
- Nurses and surgical assistants
- Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if general anesthesia is used)
Risks and Complications
- Common risks: Pain, swelling, bleeding, infection at the surgical site.
- Rare risks: Anesthesia complications, damage to surrounding tissues, scar formation, recurrence of the lesion.
Benefits
- Removal of the problematic lesion.
- Alleviation of symptoms like pain and difficulty swallowing.
- Reduced risk of malignancy if the lesion is cancerous.
- Improved quality of life and oral function post-recovery.
Recovery
- Patients will receive post-operative care instructions, including pain management (e.g., prescribed medications).
- Instructions to avoid certain foods and activities that may irritate the surgical site.
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and assess for complications.
- Recovery time typically spans a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the procedure's extent.
Alternatives
- Observation and regular monitoring if the lesion is benign and asymptomatic.
- Non-surgical treatments like laser therapy or cryotherapy for specific types of lesions.
- Pros and cons: Non-surgical methods may be less invasive with shorter recovery but might not be as thorough in removing deeper or larger lesions.
Patient Experience
- The patient may feel some discomfort or pain during recovery, which can be managed with prescribed pain relief medications.
- Swelling and minor bleeding might occur for the first 48 hours post-procedure.
- Patients are usually able to return to normal activities within a couple of weeks, although they should follow specific dietary and activity restrictions as advised.
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