Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Tumor, Soft Tissue of Thigh or Knee Area, Subcutaneous; 3 cm or Greater

Summary

This surgical procedure involves removing a tumor located in the soft tissue underneath the skin of the thigh or knee area. The tumor is 3 centimeters or larger in size. The surgery aims to completely excise the tumor to prevent its growth and potential spread.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: This procedure is performed to treat both benign and malignant tumors in the soft tissue of the thigh or knee.
• Goals: The primary goal is to remove the tumor to halt its growth and to obtain a clear margin to decrease the likelihood of recurrence.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable lump or mass in the thigh or knee area.
• Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or impaired function of the limb.

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for a certain period before the procedure.
• Pre-operative assessments may include imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scans) and blood tests.
• Patients should inform their doctor of all medications they are taking; some medications may need to be paused.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is typically given general anesthesia or regional anesthesia.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the tumor site.
3. Excision: Specialized surgical instruments are used to carefully remove the tumor along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure clear margins.
4. Closure: The incision is then closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and size of the tumor.

Setting

The procedure is generally performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Typically a general or orthopedic surgeon.
• Anesthesiologist: Manages anesthesia during surgery.
• Nursing Staff: Assists during the procedure and provides post-operative care.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, and wound complications.
• Rare Risks: Nerve damage, recurrence of the tumor, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Successful removal of the tumor, reducing symptoms and preventing potential spread.
• Biopsy of the excised tissue to determine the nature and potential aggressiveness of the tumor.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Wound care instructions and pain management will be provided.
• Recovery Time: Most patients can resume normal activities within a few weeks, but heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided until fully healed.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and check for any signs of recurrence.

Alternatives

• Observation: For small, asymptomatic benign tumors.
• Radiation or Chemotherapy: Might be considered for malignant tumors.
• Pros and Cons: Surgery provides a definitive treatment and immediate results, while non-surgical options may involve less immediate risk but require long-term management.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients will be under anesthesia and should not feel any pain.
• After the Procedure: Some pain and discomfort can be expected; pain relief medication will be provided.
• Comfort Measures: Ice packs, elevation, and prescribed pain medication can help manage post-operative pain and swelling.