Name of the Procedure:

Excision, Tumor, Soft Tissue of Face and Scalp, Subfascial (e.g., Subgaleal, Intramuscular); 2 cm or Greater

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a tumor located within the soft tissue beneath the fascia (a band of connective tissue), typically found in the face and scalp region. The tumor must be at least 2 centimeters in size to necessitate this type of excision, which targets deeper layers including subgaleal or intramuscular regions.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: The procedure addresses tumors within the soft tissues of the face and scalp.
• Goals: To remove the tumor completely while preserving healthy tissue surrounding it, potentially preventing the spread or recurrence of the tumor.

Indications

• Symptoms such as facial or scalp swelling, pain, or noticeable lumps.
• Diagnosis of benign or malignant soft tissue tumors.
• Tumors larger than 2 centimeters beneath the fascia.
• Failure of other treatments or when non-surgical options are not viable.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure and should discuss any medications with their physician.
• Diagnostic Tests: Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, and possibly a biopsy, may be performed to assess the tumor's size, location, and nature.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General or local anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: An incision is made over the identified tumor site.
3. Dissection: Surgical tools are used to carefully access and expose the tumor beneath the fascia.
4. Excision: The tumor is meticulously removed, ensuring clear margins to minimize recurrence.
5. Closure: The incision is closed using sutures or staples.
6. Bandaging: The area is bandaged to protect the wound and aid healing.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the tumor's size and complexity.

Setting

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

Personnel

• A surgeon, specialized in oncologic or reconstructive surgery.
• An anesthesiologist.
• Surgical nurses and support staff.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, and scarring.
• Rare Risks: Nerve damage, adverse reactions to anesthesia, incomplete tumor removal that might necessitate further surgery, and recurrence of the tumor.

Benefits

• Complete removal of the tumor.
• Reduced risk of tumor spread or recurrence.
• Potential relief from symptoms such as pain and discomfort.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Follow-up care includes wound care instructions, managing stitches, and monitoring for signs of infection.
• Recovery Time: Most patients recover within 2 to 4 weeks, with restrictions on strenuous activities.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure no recurrence.

Alternatives

• Non-Surgical Options: Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or watchful waiting might be considered, depending on the tumor type and patient condition.
• Surgical Alternatives: Less invasive biopsy or partial excision techniques may be options for smaller or less complex tumors.
• Pros and Cons: Non-surgical options usually have fewer immediate risks but might not be as effective in completely removing the tumor.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients under general anesthesia will be asleep and feel no pain. Those with local anesthesia will be awake but should not feel pain, only pressure.
• After the Procedure: Patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising around the incision site. Pain medication will be provided to manage discomfort.
• Comfort Measures: Application of cold packs, elevating the head, and taking prescribed pain relievers to minimize discomfort.