Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Foreign Body, Upper Arm or Elbow Area; Subcutaneous
Common name(s): Foreign Body Removal, Upper Arm Foreign Object Extraction
Medical term(s): Subcutaneous Foreign Body Removal

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves the removal of an object that has penetrated beneath the skin (subcutaneous layer) of the upper arm or elbow area.

Purpose

This procedure is performed to address issues caused by foreign objects lodged in the subcutaneous tissue.
Goals/expected outcomes: To relieve pain, prevent infection, and restore normal function to the affected area.

Indications

• Sudden pain or discomfort in the upper arm or elbow after trauma
• Visible or palpable lumps under the skin
• Signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, pus)
• Reduced mobility or function in the arm or elbow

Preparation

• Fasting may not be required unless sedation is planned.
• Patients should inform their doctor about any medications they are taking.
• Blood tests or imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, ultrasound) may be required to locate and assess the foreign body.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the affected area is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area.
3. A small incision is made over the site of the foreign body.
4. The foreign object is carefully extracted using appropriate surgical tools.
5. The incision is then closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Tools/Equipment: Surgical scalpel, forceps, irrigation solution, sutures/adhesive strips.

Anesthesia: Usually, local anesthesia is used. Sedation may be administered in some cases.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity and location of the foreign body.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or minor surgery suite within a hospital.

Personnel

• Surgeon or Primary Care Physician
• Nurses or Medical Assistants
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Pain or discomfort
• Bleeding
• Infection Rare risks:
• Nerve damage
• Incomplete removal of the foreign body
• Scarring

Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort
• Prevention of infection and other complications
• Restoration of normal arm or elbow function

Recovery

• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Follow any specific instructions regarding dressing changes and activity restrictions.
• Pain management may include over-the-counter or prescribed medications.
• Full recovery may take a few days to a week.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical methods such as attempting to dissolve or absorb the foreign body.
• Watchful waiting for small, non-problematic objects. Pros and cons: Non-surgical methods may avoid procedural risks but can be less effective or slower to resolve symptoms.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Mild discomfort from the injection of local anesthesia.
• After the procedure: Soreness or tenderness at the incision site, which can be managed with pain relievers.
• Overall: Most patients experience significant relief and a quick return to normal activities.