Name of the Procedure:

Excision, tumor, soft tissue of back or flank, subcutaneous; less than 3 cm
Common name(s): Soft tissue tumor removal, Subcutaneous tumor excision

Summary

In this procedure, a small tumor (less than 3 cm) located just beneath the skin on the back or flank is surgically removed.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the removal of benign or malignant tumors or cysts that are subcutaneously located in the back or flank area. The goals are to alleviate symptoms, ascertain a definitive diagnosis through histopathological examination, and prevent potential complications associated with the tumor.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable lump or mass in the back or flank area.
• Pain, discomfort, or functional impairment due to the tumor.
• Suspicion of malignancy based on imaging studies or clinical assessment.
• Patient request for cosmetic reasons or anxiety related to the mass.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a few hours prior to the procedure.
• Medication adjustments, such as stopping blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Preoperative assessments could include imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI) and blood tests.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned to provide optimal access to the tumor.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. A small incision is made over the tumor site.
4. The tumor is carefully dissected and removed along with a small margin of surrounding tissue.
5. The incision is closed with sutures and a sterile dressing is applied.
6. The removed tissue is sent for pathological examination.

Duration

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

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital's minor procedure room.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Scarring
• Nerve damage
• Recurrence of the tumor
• Adverse reaction to local anesthesia

Benefits

• Removal of the tumor and associated symptoms.
• Pathological analysis to determine the nature of the tumor.
• Quick recovery and minimal downtime.

Recovery

• Patients can typically go home the same day.
• Instructions include keeping the incision site clean and dry.
• Pain management may involve over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to check the surgical site and discuss pathology results.
• Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring if the tumor is not causing symptoms.
• Needle biopsy for diagnostic purposes.
• Non-surgical treatments, such as radiation or medication, depending on tumor type and pathology.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will feel minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia. Post-procedure, mild pain or soreness at the incision site is common and can be managed with pain medication. Full recovery is generally quick, with a return to normal activities within a few days and minimal scarring.