Name of the Procedure:

Excision, Tumor, Soft Tissue of Pelvis and Hip Area, Subcutaneous; Less Than 3 cm

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a small tumor located in the soft tissues just under the skin of the pelvis and hip area. The tumor is less than 3 centimeters in size.

Purpose

This surgery is performed to remove benign or malignant tumors in the subcutaneous tissue of the pelvis or hip. The goal is to eliminate the tumor, relieve symptoms, and prevent the tumor from growing or spreading.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable or visible mass in the hip or pelvic area.
• Pain, discomfort, or swelling localized to the tumor site.
• Suspicion of malignant tumors based on imaging or biopsy.
• Impact on daily activities or mobility due to the tumor.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to regular medications, especially blood thinners.
• Preoperative blood tests and imaging studies like an MRI or CT scan.
• Bathing with antiseptic soap on the day of surgery.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned to provide optimal access to the tumor site.
2. Local anesthesia or sedation is administered as appropriate.
3. A small incision is made over the tumor site in the subcutaneous tissue.
4. The tumor is carefully dissected and removed, ensuring to get clean margins.
5. The incision is closed with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.
6. The tissue sample may be sent to a lab for further analysis.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

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

Personnel

• Surgeon (typically a general surgeon or an orthopedic surgeon)
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if sedation is required)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Scarring or poor wound healing
• Recurrence of the tumor
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from symptoms like pain or discomfort.
• Preventing further growth or potential spread of the tumor.
• Minimal scarring due to the small incision.

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Keep the surgical site clean and dry.
• Follow specific wound care instructions provided by the surgeon.
• Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for several weeks.
• Schedule a follow-up visit within a week or two to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Monitoring the tumor with regular imaging if asymptomatic.
• Needle biopsy and aspiration for diagnostic purposes.
• Radiotherapy or chemotherapy in cases of malignancy.
• Pros include less invasive options, while cons include potential for not fully removing the tumor.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort at the surgical site post-procedure.
• Pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication.
• Temporary restrictions on movement and activity to allow for proper healing.
• Patients might experience a small scar at the incision site.