Name of the Procedure:

Excision of a Tumor, Soft Tissue of Neck or Anterior Thorax, Subcutaneous; 3 cm or Greater
Common name(s): Tumor removal surgery

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a tumor located in the soft tissues just under the skin of the neck or front part of the chest. It is undertaken when the tumor is 3 centimeters or larger.

Purpose

The procedure aims to remove potentially cancerous or benign tumors from the subcutaneous soft tissue to prevent growth, alleviate symptoms, and obtain a sample for biopsy to determine the nature of the tumor.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable mass in the neck or anterior thorax
• Symptoms caused by the tumor, such as pain or discomfort
• Changes in the size or characteristics of the tumor
• Diagnostic imaging suggesting a suspicious mass
• Previous biopsy results indicating the need for removal

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Discontinuation of certain medications such as blood thinners, under healthcare provider advice.
• Pre-operative blood tests and possibly imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI).
• Anesthesia evaluation to determine the best sedation method.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is administered local or general anesthesia based on the tumor's size and location.
2. Incision: A surgical cut is made over the site of the tumor.
3. Excision: The tumor and some surrounding tissue are carefully removed to ensure complete excision.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
5. Specimen Analysis: The removed tissue is sent for pathological examination.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity and size of the tumor.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Surgeon specialized in oncology or general surgery
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Pathologist (for tissue analysis post-procedure)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Scarring
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Damage to nearby structures such as nerves or blood vessels
• Recurrence of the tumor if not completely excised

Benefits

• Removal of the tumor can provide relief from symptoms and prevent further complications.
• The biopsy can inform further treatment if the tumor is cancerous.
• In many cases, the procedure results in a complete cure of the condition.

Recovery

• Patients may need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for about 1-2 weeks.
• Pain and swelling can be managed with prescribed medications.
• Keep the incision site clean and dry, follow specific wound care instructions.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and discuss pathology results.

Alternatives

• Monitoring the tumor with regular imaging (watchful waiting)
• Needle biopsy or fine needle aspiration for diagnosing without full removal
• Non-surgical treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy if the tumor is cancerous and not easily operable

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients under local anesthesia may feel pressure but no pain; with general anesthesia, they won't be conscious.
• Mild to moderate pain, swelling, or bruising at the incision site post-surgery.
• Pain management will be provided, and patients can expect improvement in symptoms shortly after recovery.