Name of the Procedure:

Destruction of a malignant lesion on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membrane; includes laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery, and surgical curettage - for lesions with a diameter between 3.1 to 4.0 cm.

Summary

This procedure involves the removal or destruction of cancerous skin lesions using various techniques such as laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery (freezing), chemosurgery (chemical application), or surgical curettage (scraping). It is performed on sensitive areas like the face and mucous membranes to eradicate malignancies while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Purpose

• Medical condition: Treats malignant skin lesions or cancers located on the face, ears, eyelids, nose, lips, or mucous membranes.
• Goals: To completely remove the malignant tissue and prevent the spread of cancer while minimizing aesthetic and functional damage.

Indications

• Presence of malignant lesions diagnosed through biopsy or clinical examination.
• Lesions that measure between 3.1 to 4.0 cm in diameter.
• Patients with confirmed skin cancers needing localized treatment.

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a certain period if general anesthesia is used.
• Medication adjustments, especially anticoagulants or blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure assessments including blood tests, imaging, or biopsy confirmation.
• Avoid sun exposure and follow specific skincare routines as advised by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is commonly used; general anesthesia may be used depending on the lesion's location and patient’s condition.
2. Techniques:
   • Laser Surgery: A laser device is used to burn and destroy cancerous cells.
   • Electrosurgery: Electric currents to cut and coagulate cancerous tissue.
   • Cryosurgery: Liquid nitrogen to freeze and kill abnormal cells.
   • Chemosurgery: Topical chemical agents applied to erode and destroy malignant cells.
   • Surgical Curettage: Surgical scraping of the lesion.
3. Procedure: The selected technique is applied to the lesion, ensuring complete removal while preserving adjacent healthy tissue.

Duration

Typically 30 minutes to 1 hour, but varies depending on lesion complexity and technique used.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, dermatologic surgery center, or hospital.

Personnel

• A dermatologist or surgical oncologist performs the procedure.
• Assisted by nursing staff and, if necessary, an anesthesiologist.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, scarring, discoloration of the skin.
• Rare risks: Nerve damage, incomplete removal of the lesion requiring additional treatment, allergic reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Effective removal of malignant tissue.
• Minimally invasive with focused techniques enhancing cosmetic outcomes.
• Rapid recovery with localized treatments.

Recovery

• Follow-up care may include wound care instructions, avoiding sun exposure, and using prescribed medications to aid healing.
• Recovery time: Generally, 1-2 weeks for initial healing, with follow-up appointments for monitoring.

Alternatives

• Mohs Surgery: Layer-by-layer removal and examination of cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: Targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells.
• Topical Treatments: Medications to apply directly to the lesion.

Patient Experience

• Mild pain or discomfort managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed medication if needed.
• Immediate post-procedure: Swelling, redness, and sensitivity at the site.
• Gradual improvement with proper post-care, allowing patients to resume normal activities within a few days to weeks.