Name of the Procedure:

Excision of a tumor from the soft tissue of the shoulder area, subcutaneous; 3 cm or greater.

Summary

An excision of a soft tissue tumor in the shoulder area is a surgical procedure to remove a growth from under the skin. The targeted tumor is at least 3 centimeters in size.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of a subcutaneous tumor in the shoulder area. The goals include:

• Removing potentially cancerous or benign tumors.
• Alleviating symptoms such as pain or discomfort.
• Preventing further growth or spread of the tumor.

Indications

This procedure is warranted if a patient experiences:

• A noticeable lump or mass in the shoulder area.
• Pain, discomfort, or restricted movement.
• Suspicion of malignancy based on imaging or biopsy.

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions may include:

• Fasting for a specific time before surgery if general anesthesia will be used.
• Stopping certain medications, such as blood thinners, as advised by the physician.
• Undergoing diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scan) and blood tests.

Procedure Description

1. Administration of local or general anesthesia.
2. Cleaning and sterilizing the shoulder area.
3. Making an incision over the tumor site.
4. Carefully dissecting and removing the tumor and some surrounding tissue.
5. Closing the incision with sutures or staples.
6. Applying a sterile dressing over the site.

Common tools and equipment:

• Scalpel
• Forceps
• Scissors
• Sutures or surgical staples

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

This surgery is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Pain Rare complications:
• Nerve damage
• Scarring
• Reaction to anesthesia

Benefits

Expected benefits include:

• Removal of the tumor.
• Relief from symptoms.
• Reduced risk of the tumor growing or spreading. Benefits are typically realized immediately after recovery from surgery.

Recovery

Post-procedure care involves:

• Keeping the incision site clean and dry.
• Taking prescribed pain medication.
• Limiting movement in the shoulder area.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Recovery time can vary but generally ranges from 2 to 4 weeks.

Alternatives

Other treatment options may include:

• Observation if the tumor is small and asymptomatic.
• Needle biopsy or aspiration.
• Non-surgical treatments such as radiation therapy. Each alternative has its pros and cons, which should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, under anesthesia, you won't feel pain. Post-procedure, you might experience:

• Soreness or mild pain at the incision site.
• Need for pain management, usually with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication.
• Some temporary restrictions on shoulder movement to aid healing.