Name of the Procedure:

Excision, Tumor, Soft Tissue of Neck or Anterior Thorax, Subcutaneous; Less than 3 cm

Summary

This procedure involves surgically removing a tumor located just under the skin in the neck or anterior (front) chest area. The tumor being removed measures less than 3 centimeters in size.

Purpose

The primary goal of the procedure is to remove abnormal tissue growths to prevent them from causing harm or discomfort. This can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of the tumor becoming malignant (cancerous).

Indications

• Presence of a palpable lump or tumor in the neck or anterior thorax
• Tumors causing discomfort, pain, or pressure on adjacent structures
• Biopsy-proven benign tumors that have the potential for growth or transformation
• Cosmetic concerns due to the visible appearance of the tumor

Preparation

• Patients may be required to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Medications, especially blood thinners, might need to be adjusted or paused.
• Pre-operative assessments may include blood tests and imaging studies like an ultrasound or MRI to evaluate the tumor.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned appropriately and anesthesia is administered (usually local anesthesia, though general anesthesia may be used in some cases).
2. The surgical site is cleaned and sterilized.
3. A small incision is made over or near the tumor.
4. The tumor is carefully dissected and removed from the surrounding tissues.
5. The area is inspected to ensure complete removal, and any bleeding is controlled.
6. The incision is closed with stitches or surgical glue, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity and location of the tumor.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Surgeon (typically a general surgeon or a specialist in head and neck surgery)
• Surgical nurse or assistant
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Scarring or cosmetic dissatisfaction
• Nerve damage causing weakness or numbness
• Recurrence of the tumor

Benefits

• Removal of the tumor can relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Reduced risk of the tumor becoming malignant.
• Improved cosmetic appearance if the tumor was visible.

Recovery

• Patients typically go home the same day.
• Follow post-operative instructions, including wound care and activity restrictions.
• Pain may be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications.
• Full recovery usually takes 1 to 2 weeks.
• A follow-up appointment is scheduled to monitor healing and remove stitches if necessary.

Alternatives

• Observation and routine monitoring for changes in tumor size or symptoms.
• Needle aspiration or biopsy for smaller, less symptomatic tumors.
• Radiation or chemotherapy if the tumor is malignant.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient will be under local or general anesthesia and should not feel pain.
• Post-procedure, there might be some discomfort or mild pain, managed with medications.
• Swelling and bruising around the incision site are common but typically resolve within a few days.
• Adhering to recovery instructions helps ensure a smooth and successful healing process.