Name of the Procedure:

Radical Resection of Tumor (eg, Sarcoma), Soft Tissue of Upper Arm or Elbow Area; Less Than 5 cm

• Common Name: Tumor removal surgery
• Technical Term: Radical soft tissue sarcoma resection

Summary

Radical resection of a tumor in the soft tissue of the upper arm or elbow area is a surgical procedure to remove a cancerous growth, including some of the surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are removed. This type of surgery is typically performed when the tumor is smaller than 5 cm in size.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: Soft tissue sarcoma or other malignant tumors in the upper arm or elbow region.
• Goals: To completely remove the tumor and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
• Expected Outcomes: Elimination of the tumor, potentially prolonging survival and improving quality of life by preventing the spread of cancer.

Indications

• Presence of a confirmed soft tissue sarcoma or suspicious mass in the upper arm or elbow area.
• Symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, or functional impairment in the arm.
• Diagnostic imaging showing a tumor smaller than 5 cm.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for several hours before surgery.
• Medication Adjustments: Blood thinning medications may need to be paused.
• Diagnostic Tests: Imaging studies (MRI, CT scans) and biopsy may be required beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is unconscious and pain-free.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the tumor site.
3. Tumor Removal: The surgeon carefully excises the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue.
4. Wound Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
5. Tools and Equipment: Scalpel, surgical scissors, forceps, and possibly electrocautery devices.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the tumor's size and location.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Surgeon: Performs the tumor resection.
• Nurses: Assist during the surgery and provide post-operative care.
• Anesthesiologist: Manages anesthesia and monitors the patient’s vital signs during the procedure.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, and pain at the surgical site.
• Rare Risks: Damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels, incomplete tumor removal, and recurrence of the tumor.
• Management: Postoperative antibiotics, pain management, and follow-up imaging to ensure complete removal.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Complete removal of the tumor, decreased risk of cancer recurrence.
• How Soon: Benefits may be realized immediately post-surgery but confirmed over time through follow-up assessments.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular dressing changes, keeping the incision site clean and dry.
• Expected Recovery Time: Typically, several weeks to a few months.
• Restrictions: Limitations on arm movement and lifting heavy objects. Follow-up appointments for wound checks and imaging.

Alternatives

• Radiation Therapy: May be considered if surgery is not feasible.
• Chemotherapy: Could be an option depending on the type and stage of cancer.
• Pros and Cons: Surgery is typically more definitive for localized tumors, while radiation and chemotherapy might be useful for more widespread disease but come with different side effect profiles.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: The patient will be under general anesthesia and will not experience any pain.
• After the Procedure: Pain and discomfort managed with prescribed pain medications. Some restrictions on activities to allow for healing.
• Pain Management: Pain relief medications, physical therapy exercises as recommended.