Name of the Procedure:

Excision, tumor, soft tissue of forearm and/or wrist area, subfascial (e.g., intramuscular); less than 3 cm

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a tumor located within the soft tissues of the forearm or wrist beneath the fascia, such as within the muscle. It is a minor surgery typically recommended when the tumor is relatively small, measuring less than 3 centimeters.

Purpose

• Medical Condition Addressed: Removal of benign or malignant soft tissue tumors.
• Goals: To prevent the spread of cancerous cells, relieve symptoms such as pain or restricted movement, and obtain tissue samples for diagnostic purposes.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable lump or mass in the forearm or wrist.
• Suspicion or confirmation of benign or malignant tumor.
• Symptoms like pain, swelling, or restricted movement.
• Patient-specific factors such as overall health and previous medical history.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments in medication, especially blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Preoperative imaging (e.g., MRI or CT scan) and blood tests may be required.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered depending on the size and location of the tumor.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the site of the tumor.
3. Exposure: The underlying tissues and fascia are carefully separated to expose the tumor.
4. Excision: The tumor is meticulously removed along with a small margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete excision.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures and dressed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Surgeon specializing in orthopedics or oncology
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical nurses and technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, pain at the surgical site.
• Rare Complications: Nerve damage, incomplete removal, recurrence of the tumor.

Benefits

• Complete removal of the tumor to prevent progression.
• Relief from symptoms like pain and restricted movement.
• Tissue diagnosis to guide further treatment.

Recovery

• Patients may go home the same day or stay for a short period.
• Post-procedure care includes keeping the incision area clean and dry, pain management, and avoiding strenuous activities.
• Recovery time is generally a few weeks, with follow-up appointments to monitor healing and any recurrence.

Alternatives

• Watchful Waiting: Monitoring the tumor without immediate surgery.
• Radiation or Chemotherapy: If the tumor is malignant and the patient's condition warrants it.
• Cryotherapy or Radiofrequency Ablation: For patients who are not candidates for surgery.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, local anesthesia ensures minimal pain; with general anesthesia, the patient will be asleep.
• Post-procedure pain can usually be managed with prescribed medications.
• Some swelling and bruising around the surgical site are normal, and full recovery typically occurs within a few weeks.

This markdown-styled description provides a comprehensive yet concise overview of the procedure, aiming to be informative for both medical professionals and patients alike.