Name of the Procedure:

Excision, Tumor, Soft Tissue of Foot or Toe, Subcutaneous; 1.5 cm or Greater

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a soft tissue tumor located just beneath the skin on the foot or toe. It is performed to eliminate abnormal growths that may be benign or malignant, measuring 1.5 cm or greater in size.

Purpose

Medical Condition: Soft tissue tumors of the foot or toe. Goals: To remove the tumor to prevent further growth, alleviate symptoms, and enable a thorough pathological examination to determine if the tumor is benign or malignant.

Indications

• Presence of a noticeable lump or mass in the foot or toe.
• Pain, discomfort, or difficulty walking due to the tumor.
• Suspected malignancy based on imaging studies or physical examination.
• Rapidly growing or changing tumor.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: May require fasting if general anesthesia is used.
• Medication Adjustments: Patients may need to stop certain medications such as blood thinners.
• Diagnostic Tests: Imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, and sometimes a biopsy.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia to numb the area, or general anesthesia for more extensive procedures.
2. Incision: A precise incision is made over the tumor site.
3. Tumor Removal: The tumor is carefully excised along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a sterile dressing is applied.
5. Pathology: The excised tissue is sent to a laboratory for pathological examination.

Duration

Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the tumor's size and complexity.

Setting

Performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon: Specializes in foot and ankle surgery.
• Nursing Staff: Assists with the procedure and patient care.
• Anesthesiologist: Administers anesthesia if required.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, swelling, and pain.
• Rare Risks: Damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels, recurrence of the tumor, adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Removal of tumor, relief from symptoms, and prevention of potential malignancy.
• Timeframe: Benefits are typically realized immediately after the procedure, though full recovery may take several weeks.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry, follow wound care instructions, pain management with medications.
• Recovery Time: Typically about 2 to 4 weeks for complete healing. Limited weight-bearing on the foot may be advised.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and assess for any recurrence.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical Options: Observation if the tumor is benign and not causing symptoms.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques: Sometimes, needle biopsy or other less invasive methods may be considered.
• Pros and Cons: Non-surgical methods may avoid surgical risks but may not provide a definitive diagnosis or relief.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Minimal discomfort if under local anesthesia; sedation or general anesthesia ensures no pain during the procedure.
• After the Procedure: Mild to moderate pain managed with medications, possible swelling, and temporary restrictions in foot use.