Name of the Procedure:

Excision, Tumor, Soft Tissue of Thigh or Knee Area, Subcutaneous, Less than 3 cm
Common name(s): Removal of a small soft tissue tumor in the thigh or knee area

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves surgically removing a small mass or lump located just under the skin in the thigh or knee area. The mass being removed is less than 3 centimeters in size.

Purpose

This procedure is intended to address the presence of a subcutaneous tumor in the thigh or knee area. The main goals are to relieve symptoms, eliminate the tumor, and prevent possible complications such as pain or growth of the tumor.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable lump or mass in the thigh or knee area.
• Symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or restricted movement.
• Diagnostic imaging or biopsy indicating the need for removal.
• Patient consent and physical fitness for surgery.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• They may need to discontinue certain medications, especially blood thinners, as instructed by their physician.
• Pre-surgical evaluations may include blood tests and imaging studies to assess the tumor and surrounding tissues.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be positioned appropriately, typically lying down.
2. Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area.
3. The surgeon will make a small incision over the tumor site.
4. Surgical instruments will be used to carefully excise the tumor and a small margin of surrounding tissue.
5. The incision will be closed with sutures.
6. A sterile dressing will be applied to the wound.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

Setting

The procedure is generally performed in an outpatient surgery center or hospital.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)
• Operating room technician

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Scarring or poor wound healing
• Rarely, damage to surrounding tissues or nerves

Benefits

• Removal of the tumor and associated symptoms.
• Reduction in the risk of tumor growth or potential malignancy.
• Improvement in movement and discomfort relief.

Recovery

• Patients may experience mild pain or discomfort, manageable with pain relievers.
• The surgical site should be kept clean and dry; dressings changed as directed.
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor healing.
• Recovery time is typically a few weeks, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring if the tumor is small and asymptomatic.
• Needle biopsy or aspiration to obtain tissue samples for analysis.
• Non-surgical treatments such as radiation or medication, depending on the tumor type.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, local anesthesia will ensure the patient feels minimal to no pain. Post-procedure, there may be some soreness and mild discomfort at the surgical site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The patient will receive detailed instructions on wound care and activity restrictions to ensure proper healing.