Name of the Procedure:

Radical Resection of Tumor (e.g., Sarcoma), Soft Tissue of Leg or Ankle Area; Less than 5 cm

Summary

Radical resection of a tumor in the soft tissue of the leg or ankle area involves surgically removing cancerous tissue along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated. This is often undertaken when the tumor is smaller than 5 cm in size.

Purpose

Medical Condition:

• Soft tissue sarcomas or other tumors located in the leg or ankle area.

Goals:

• Eliminate the tumor and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Preserve as much normal function of the leg or ankle as possible.

Indications

Symptoms or Conditions:

• Presence of a detectable tumor less than 5 cm in the soft tissue of the leg or ankle.
• Pain, swelling, or other symptoms associated with the tumor.
• Positive biopsy confirming malignancy.

Patient Criteria:

• Suitable candidate for surgery based on overall health.
• Absence of metastatic disease that would contraindicate local surgery.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Fasting typically required for 12 hours before surgery.
• Adjustments to medications as advised by the surgeon, especially blood thinners.
• Smoking cessation to promote better healing.

Diagnostic Tests:

• Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to assess the tumor location and size.
• Biopsy to confirm tumor type and malignancy.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the tumor site.
3. Tumor Removal: The tumor and an adequate margin of surrounding healthy tissue are carefully excised.
4. Closure: The incision is closed using sutures or staples.
5. Pathology: The excised tissue is sent to pathology for further analysis.

Tools and Equipment:

• Scalpels, surgical scissors, forceps.
• Suction devices to clear the operative field.
• Electrocautery for bleeding control.

Duration

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

Setting

Performed in a hospital or surgical center in a sterile operating room environment.

Personnel

• Surgeon (usually an orthopedic or surgical oncologist)
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technician

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Bleeding
• Infection at the surgical site

Rare Complications:

• Damage to surrounding tissues, including nerves or blood vessels.
• Delayed wound healing or scarring.
• Recurrence of the tumor.

Benefits

• Complete removal of the localized tumor.
• Potential cure if the tumor has not metastasized.
• Relief from symptoms such as pain or swelling.

Realization Time:

• Immediate tumor removal; symptom relief and healthier prognosis may follow as healing occurs.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Wound care instructions including dressing changes.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Physical therapy may be recommended to restore function.

Recovery Time:

• Initial recovery typically takes a few weeks.
• Full recovery and return to normal activities may vary from 4-6 weeks.

Follow-Up:

• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and check for recurrence.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Limb-sparing surgeries with less aggressive resections

Comparison:

• Radiation and chemotherapy may target cancer cells but do not remove the tumor mass.
• Less aggressive surgeries may result in quicker recovery but might not be as effective in preventing recurrence.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patient will be under general anesthesia and unaware of the procedure.
• No pain will be felt during surgery.

After the Procedure:

• Some discomfort or pain managed with medications.
• Possible temporary limitations in mobility.
• Careful monitoring for signs of infection or complications.

By providing detailed information, patients can better understand the procedure, its purpose, and what to expect during the recovery period.