Excision, malignant lesion including margins, scalp, neck, hands, feet, genitalia; excised diameter over 4.0 cm
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Excision of Malignant Lesion with Margins (Scalp, Neck, Hands, Feet, Genitalia; Excised Diameter Over 4.0 cm)
Summary
This procedure involves surgically removing a cancerous lesion along with a margin of surrounding tissue from areas like the scalp, neck, hands, feet, and genitalia. The excised area will be over 4.0 cm in diameter.
Purpose
The primary goal is to ensure complete removal of the malignant lesion to prevent the spread of cancer and reduce the risk of recurrence. Secondary goals include preserving as much healthy tissue as possible and ensuring proper wound healing.
Indications
This procedure is indicated for patients with malignant tumors or lesions on sensitive areas such as the scalp, neck, hands, feet, and genital region. It's particularly appropriate for lesions that are larger than 4.0 cm in diameter or those that have shown aggressive growth.
Preparation
Patients may be instructed to fast for a certain period before surgery and may need to adjust certain medications under physician guidance. Pre-procedure assessments can include blood tests, imaging studies, and a thorough medical history review.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered to numb the area or put the patient to sleep.
- Incision: The surgeon makes an incision around the malignant lesion, ensuring a margin of healthy tissue is also excised to ensure complete cancer removal.
- Excision: The lesion and surrounding tissue are carefully removed.
- Closure: The wound is closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied.
- Pathology: The excised tissue is sent to a laboratory for further pathological examination to confirm that all malignant cells have been removed.
Typical tools include surgical scalpels, forceps, and suturing materials.
Duration
The procedure typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and location of the lesion.
Setting
The excision is usually performed in a hospital operating room, outpatient surgical center, or specialized clinic.
Personnel
A team comprising a surgeon, anesthesiologist, surgical nurses, and possibly a pathologist will be involved in the procedure.
Risks and Complications
Common risks include bleeding, infection, and scarring. Rare risks could involve nerve damage, incomplete removal of the cancerous tissue, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Management includes antibiotics for infections, repeat surgery for incomplete excision, and pain management protocols.
Benefits
The primary benefit is the removal of the cancerous lesion, potentially curing the patient or significantly slowing the progression of cancer. Benefits are often realized immediately after successful removal, with improved prognosis following pathological confirmation of complete excision.
Recovery
Patients will receive post-op care instructions, including wound care, activity restrictions, and pain management. Recovery time varies but generally includes a few days of rest and a follow-up appointment within one to two weeks to monitor healing and receive pathology results.
Alternatives
Alternatives include less invasive treatments such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical chemotherapy. These may be considered based on the lesion's size, location, and malignancy. However, these alternatives may not offer the same level of assurance in complete cancer removal.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, patients under local anesthesia may feel minimal discomfort or pressure but should not experience pain. Post-operatively, patients might experience mild to moderate pain, which will be managed with prescribed pain relievers. Dressings will need to be kept clean and dry, and physical activity may be limited to ensure proper healing.
This markdown text summarizes the excision of malignant lesions over 4 cm in sensitive areas, providing a comprehensive overview for patients and healthcare providers.