Name of the Procedure:

Radical resection of tumor (e.g., sarcoma), soft tissue of foot or toe; less than 3 cm.

Summary

A radical resection of a soft tissue tumor in the foot or toe is a surgical procedure to remove a malignant tumor, such as a sarcoma, from the foot or toe area. The tumor involved in this particular procedure is less than 3 centimeters in size.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this procedure is to treat and remove cancerous tumors from the soft tissue of the foot or toe. The goal is to completely eradicate the tumor to prevent its spread and to minimize the risk of recurrence, thereby enhancing the patient's chances of recovery and prolonging their life.

Indications

• Presence of a malignant soft tissue tumor in the foot or toe, specifically a sarcoma.
• Tumor size less than 3 centimeters.
• Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and a noticeable lump in the affected area.
• Patients who have not responded to other treatments or for whom surgery is deemed the best option.

Preparation

• Patients will be instructed to fast for a specified period before the procedure, usually around 8-12 hours.
• Medication adjustments might be necessary, particularly if the patient is taking anticoagulants or other medications that could affect surgery.
• Preoperative diagnostic tests may include imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to precisely locate the tumor and assess its size and extent.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is administered either regional or general anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and free from pain during the procedure.
2. The surgeon makes an incision over the tumor site.
3. The tumor is carefully excised, ensuring clear margins to remove all cancerous cells.
4. The surrounding soft tissue and any affected structures may also be removed to ensure complete tumor resection.
5. The incision is then closed with sutures or staples, and a dressing is applied to protect the area.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the tumor's location and involvement with surrounding tissues.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic or oncologic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room technicians

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Nerve damage leading to numbness or weakness in the foot or toe
• Poor wound healing or scarring
• Recurrence of the tumor
• Complications related to anesthesia

Benefits

• Complete removal of the tumor
• Reduced risk of cancer spreading to other parts of the body
• Alleviation of symptoms such as pain and swelling
• Improved overall prognosis and survival rates

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for a short period following the surgery.
• Pain management will be provided, including medications as needed.
• The foot or toe must be kept elevated to reduce swelling and promote healing.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and to check for any signs of recurrence.
• Physical activity may be restricted, and a physical therapy regimen may be prescribed.
• Full recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on individual circumstances and the extent of the surgery.

Alternatives

• Radiation therapy, which can shrink the tumor but might not completely eliminate it.
• Chemotherapy, which may be used in conjunction with surgery or as a standalone treatment, although it generally has more systemic side effects.
• Less invasive surgical options that may be suitable for smaller or less aggressive tumors.
• Each alternative comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, which should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

Patient Experience

• Patients may feel anxious before the surgery; pre-procedure counseling and anesthesia can help manage this.
• Postoperatively, patients may experience discomfort or moderate pain, which will be managed with prescribed pain medications.
• Swelling and restricted movement in the foot or toe are common but will gradually improve with time and proper care.
• Emotional and psychological support may be necessary, particularly for those dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment.