Name of the Procedure:

Incision and Removal of Foreign Body, Subcutaneous Tissues; Complicated Common name(s): Detailed surgical removal of deeply embedded foreign objects

Summary

In simple terms, this procedure involves making a careful cut (incision) into the skin to remove foreign material that is lodged under the skin. The "complicated" aspect indicates that the foreign object is deeply embedded or challenging to remove due to location or surrounding scar tissue.

Purpose

This procedure is done to remove foreign objects from under the skin that cannot be easily extracted. It aims to alleviate pain, prevent infection, and restore normal functioning of the affected area.

Indications

• Persistent pain or discomfort
• Infection or inflammation
• Restricted movement or function of the affected area
• Objects lodged deep under the skin not reachable by simpler methods

Preparation

• The patient may be instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure if general anesthesia is used.
• Certain medications, like blood thinners, might need to be adjusted.
• Pre-operative imaging (X-rays, CT scans) to locate the foreign body accurately.

Procedure Description

1. The affected area is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, or general anesthesia is used for larger or more complicated removals.
3. A carefully planned incision is made to access the foreign body.
4. Surgical tools like forceps are used to gently remove the object.
5. The surrounding tissue is examined for damage or infection.
6. The incision is closed with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Performs the incision and removal.
• Nurse: Assists during the procedure and provides post-operative care.
• Anesthesiologist: Monitors and manages anesthesia if applicable.

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Potential for incomplete removal requiring further surgery

Benefits

• Relief from pain or discomfort caused by the foreign body
• Prevention of infection or other complications
• Restoration of normal function and movement in the affected area

Recovery

• Keep the incision area clean and dry.
• Follow prescribed antibiotic or pain medications, if any.
• Avoid strenuous activities until cleared by the doctor.
• A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to monitor healing and remove sutures if necessary.
• Full recovery time can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s overall health.

Alternatives

• Non-Surgical Extraction: Attempted through less invasive methods if the foreign body is easily accessible.
• Observation: Monitoring to see if the body will naturally expel the foreign object (more appropriate for small, non-threatening objects).

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients will be under anesthesia and should feel no pain.
• Some soreness and swelling are expected after the procedure.
• Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication.
• Post-procedure care includes rest and avoiding strain on the affected area.