Name of the Procedure:

Radical resection of tumor (e.g., sarcoma), soft tissue of abdominal wall; less than 5 cm.

Summary

This procedure involves surgically removing a malignant tumor located in the soft tissue of the abdominal wall. It targets tumors that are less than 5 centimeters in size, ensuring complete removal while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this procedure is to treat soft tissue sarcomas or similar tumors in the abdominal wall. The goal is to eliminate the cancerous cells, prevent their spread, and minimize the risk of recurrence, thereby improving the patient's prognosis and quality of life.

Indications

• Presence of a soft tissue tumor in the abdominal wall less than 5 cm in size.
• Biopsy-confirmed diagnosis of sarcoma or other malignant tumors.
• Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or a noticeable mass in the abdominal wall.
• Patients who are medically fit for surgery.

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the surgery.
• Medication adjustments, such as stopping blood thinners, might be necessary.
• Pre-operative imaging studies (e.g., CT scan, MRI) and blood tests are usually required to evaluate the tumor and overall health status.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the abdominal wall over the tumor site.
3. The surgeon carefully excises the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
4. Hemostasis is achieved, and the surgical area is inspected for any remaining tumor cells.
5. The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
6. Sometimes, a drain may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation.

Duration

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

Setting

This surgery is usually performed in a hospital's surgical unit or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• A general surgeon or surgical oncologist.
• An anesthesiologist.
• Surgical nurses and technicians.

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: infection, bleeding, and scarring.
• Rare risks: damage to nearby organs, hernia development, recurrence of the tumor.
• Complications are managed with medication, additional surgery, or other medical interventions as needed.

Benefits

• Complete removal of the tumor.
• Decreased risk of cancer spreading.
• Enhanced prognosis and quality of life.
• Benefits are typically realized shortly after successful surgery and recovery.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days post-surgery.
• Pain management includes prescribed pain relief medications.
• Instructions: wound care, activity restrictions, and avoiding heavy lifting for several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring recovery and tumor recurrence.

Alternatives

• Radiation therapy or chemotherapy, often in conjunction with or instead of surgery.
• Pros: Non-invasive options.
• Cons: May not fully eliminate the tumor and can have significant side effects.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Patients will be asleep and should not feel any pain due to general anesthesia.
• After the procedure: Post-operative pain and discomfort are common but manageable with medications.
• Full recovery can take several weeks, during which patients should follow all medical advice to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.