Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Tumor, Soft Tissue of Leg or Ankle Area, Subcutaneous; Less than 3 cm

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a small, abnormal growth (tumor) located just beneath the skin (subcutaneous tissue) of the leg or ankle, measuring less than 3 cm in size.

Purpose

The excision is performed to remove benign or malignant tumors from the soft tissues. The goal is to eliminate abnormal growth, alleviate symptoms, and prevent possible complications, such as the tumor spreading or causing further tissue damage.

Indications

• Presence of a palpable, subcutaneous lump in the leg or ankle area.
• Pain, discomfort, or restriction in movement caused by the tumor.
• Diagnostic imaging or a biopsy indicating a suspicious or confirmed malignant tumor.
• Rapid growth or changes in the characteristics of the tumor.

Preparation

• Fasting may be required if general anesthesia is used.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking; some medications may need to be adjusted or stopped.
• Preoperative assessment including blood tests and imaging studies to evaluate the extent of the tumor.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation, or under general anesthesia depending on the tumor's size and location and patient preference.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the tumor site.
3. Excision: The tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue are carefully dissected and removed.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples.
5. Dressing: A sterile dressing is applied to the wound.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The excision can be performed in an outpatient surgical center or a hospital.

Personnel

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

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Scarring or changes in skin sensation
• Recurrence of the tumor
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia

Benefits

• Removal of the tumor and associated symptoms.
• Prevention of potential complications related to the tumor.
• Minimal invasiveness with relatively quick recovery.

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Instructions for wound care and signs of infection to watch for.
• Pain management with over-the-counter or prescription medications.
• Limited physical activity to avoid stress on the surgical site.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and results.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring if the tumor is benign and asymptomatic.
• Needle biopsy or aspiration if diagnosis is uncertain.
• Non-surgical treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy for certain types of malignant tumors.
• Pros and cons: Surgery provides a definitive solution, while non-surgical options may be less invasive but come with varying effectiveness.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel mild discomfort during the local anesthesia injection and some pressure during the procedure. Post-procedure, mild to moderate pain is typical, which can be managed with pain medication. A sense of relief often follows knowing the tumor has been removed.