17264 Destruction, malignant lesion (eg, laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, surgical curettement), trunk, arms or legs; lesion diameter 3.1 to 4.0 cm

Name of the Procedure:

Destruction of Malignant Lesion (e.g., Laser Surgery, Electrosurgery, Cryosurgery, Chemosurgery, Surgical Curettement) for Lesions on the Trunk, Arms, or Legs; Lesion Diameter 3.1 to 4.0 cm

Summary

This procedure involves removing cancerous skin lesions from the trunk, arms, or legs, specifically those measuring 3.1 to 4.0 cm in diameter. Various techniques such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, or surgical curettement may be used to destroy the lesion.

Purpose

This procedure aims to eliminate malignant skin tumors, preventing their spread and reducing the risk of further skin damage or cancer metastasis.

Indications

• Presence of malignant skin lesions measuring between 3.1 and 4.0 cm in diameter on the trunk, arms, or legs.
• Diagnosed skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.
• Patients who have not responded to other treatments or for whom removal is deemed necessary.

Preparation

• Follow specific fasting instructions provided by the healthcare team.
• Adjust any medications as directed, especially blood thinners.
• Complete any necessary pre-operative tests, such as blood work or imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. Depending on the technique, either a laser, electric current, cold probe (cryosurgery), chemical agents, or surgical curette is used to destroy the lesion.
4. The healthcare provider meticulously removes or destroys the cancerous tissue.
5. Dressings are applied to the treated area to aid in healing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the size and complexity of the lesion.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or Surgeon
• Nursing Staff
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist (if general anesthesia is employed)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Scarring
• Bleeding
• Pain or discomfort
• Recurrence of the lesion
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia

Benefits

• Effective removal of malignant lesions.
• Decreased risk of cancer spread.
• Prompt recovery of normal skin appearance and function.

Recovery

• Follow post-procedure wound care instructions diligently.
• Anticipate a recovery period of several days to a couple of weeks.
• Limit physical activity as advised and attend follow-up appointments for monitoring.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments such as topical chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Watchful waiting in cases where immediate intervention is not critical.
• Comparison with other options to be discussed with a healthcare provider to weigh benefits and risks.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will feel minimal discomfort due to anesthesia. Post-procedure, some pain and swelling may occur which can be managed with prescribed pain relievers and care instructions. The patient should feel improvement within a few days to weeks, depending on individual healing rates.