Name of the Procedure:

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

Summary

In layman's terms, a radical resection of a tumor involves surgically removing a tumor from the soft tissues of the shoulder area. The tumor in question is less than 5 centimeters in size. This procedure aims to completely remove the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure no cancer cells are left behind.

Purpose

Radical resection is performed to treat soft tissue sarcomas or other tumors in the shoulder area. The primary goal is to remove the entire tumor and any microscopic cancer cells surrounding it to prevent recurrence and spread.

Indications

• Presence of a soft tissue tumor or sarcoma in the shoulder area
• Tumor size less than 5 cm
• Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or limited shoulder movement
• Diagnostic imaging or biopsy confirming the type and nature of the tumor

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours prior to surgery
• Adjustments to current medications as advised by the doctor
• Preoperative imaging studies (like MRI or CT scan) to map the tumor
• Blood tests and other assessments to ensure fitness for surgery

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned and prepped for surgery, typically under general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made over the shoulder area where the tumor is located.
3. The surgeon carefully dissects through the layers of tissue to expose the tumor.
4. The tumor is excised along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
5. Hemostasis (control of bleeding) is achieved, and the surgical site is closed with sutures or staples.
6. The excised tissue is sent for pathological analysis to confirm complete removal.

Duration

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

Setting

The surgery is performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or general surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses and technicians
• Pathologist (to analyze excised tissue)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Bleeding, infection, pain at the surgical site
• Rare risks: Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves, recurrence of the tumor, anesthesia-related complications
• Management: Prompt medical attention, antibiotics for infections, pain management strategies

Benefits

• Complete removal of the tumor
• Reduced risk of tumor recurrence
• Potential relief from symptoms such as pain and restricted movement
• Pathological confirmation of complete tumor removal

Recovery

• Postoperative care includes pain management and wound care instructions.
• Initial recovery may take 1 to 2 weeks, with restrictions on heavy lifting and shoulder movement.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure no recurrence
• Physical therapy may be recommended to restore shoulder function

Alternatives

• Radiation therapy or chemotherapy for non-surgical candidates
• Less invasive surgical options (if appropriate for tumor size and type)
• Pros and cons: Radical resection offers complete removal but requires surgery; alternatives may be less invasive but might not be as definitive in removing all cancer cells.

Patient Experience

• During: The patient will be under general anesthesia and will not experience pain.
• After: Post-surgery, some pain and discomfort at the surgical site are expected, managed with pain relief methods.
• Emotional support and information on what to expect can help alleviate anxiety and promote a smoother recovery process.