Name of the Procedure:

Excision, tumor, soft tissue of shoulder area, subcutaneous; less than 3 cm

Summary

This is a surgical procedure to remove a small tumor, less than 3 cm in size, located just under the skin in the shoulder region. The aim is to excise the tumor completely to prevent further growth and potential complications.

Purpose

The procedure addresses tumors located in the soft tissue under the skin of the shoulder area. It aims to:

• Remove benign or malignant growths
• Prevent potential malignant transformation
• Alleviate discomfort or pain caused by the tumor

Indications

• Presence of a palpable lump or mass in the shoulder area
• MRI or ultrasound evidence of a subcutaneous tumor
• Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or restricted movement
• Biopsy results indicating a benign or malignant tumor

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for several hours before the procedure.
• Discontinuation of blood-thinning medications may be necessary.
• Preoperative imaging studies, such as MRI or ultrasound, to locate the tumor precisely.
• Blood tests to ensure the patient is fit for surgery.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, or general anesthesia may be used depending on the patient’s condition.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the tumor site.
3. Excision: The tumor is carefully dissected and removed along with some surrounding tissue.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied to the site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tumor's location and complexity.

Setting

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

Personnel

• A general surgeon or orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• An anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Scarring
• Recurrence of the tumor
• Nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness in the shoulder area

Benefits

• Removal of the tumor reduces the risk of further growth or complications.
• Alleviation of symptoms like pain and discomfort.
• Minimal scarring and quick recovery with subcutaneous tumors.

Recovery

• Patients may go home the same day.
• Instructions include keeping the wound clean and dry, monitoring for signs of infection, and taking prescribed pain relief medications.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Follow-up appointment for suture removal and to check healing progress is usually scheduled within a week or two.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring if the tumor is benign and asymptomatic.
• Needle biopsy for diagnostic purposes without excision.
• Radiation or chemotherapy if the tumor is malignant and surgery is not advisable.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, if local anesthesia is used, the patient remains awake but should feel no pain, merely a sensation of pressure. Post-procedure, patients might experience mild pain and discomfort at the incision site, manageable with over-the-counter pain relief or prescribed medications. Regular follow-up checks ensure proper healing and monitor for any recurrence.