Name of the Procedure:

Excision or curettage of bone cyst or benign tumor, phalanges of foot

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal (excision) or scraping (curettage) of a bone cyst or benign tumor located in the toe bones (phalanges) of the foot. It is a routine operation aimed at eliminating abnormal but non-cancerous growths from the bone.

Purpose

The main purpose is to remove cysts or benign tumors from the phalanges to alleviate pain, prevent further bone damage, and restore normal bone function. The expected outcomes include pain relief, prevention of fractures, and improved mobility.

Indications

• Persistent pain in the toes
• Swelling or visible deformity in the toes
• Difficulty walking or performing daily activities
• Abnormal findings on X-rays or MRI scans indicating a bone cyst or benign tumor

Preparation

• Patients may be advised to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments, particularly blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Preoperative imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs are conducted.
• Blood tests and physical examinations ensure patients are fit for surgery.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A small incision is made over the affected area.
3. Excision/Curettage: The surgeon removes the cyst or tumor using specialized surgical tools; curettage involves scraping the lesion from the bone.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples.
5. Dressing: A sterile bandage is applied to the site.

Tools include surgical knives, curettes, and possibly an endoscopic camera.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

It is usually performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Bone fracture
• Recurrence of the cyst or tumor

Benefits

• Relief from pain
• Improved toe function
• Reduction in the risk of bone fractures
• Enhanced quality of life

Recovery

• Patients may be advised to keep weight off the affected foot for several days.
• Pain management usually involves prescribed painkillers.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove sutures.
• Full recovery generally takes several weeks, during which physical activity may be limited.

Alternatives

• Monitoring the cyst or tumor if symptoms are mild
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy for pain management
• Pros and cons: Alternatives might be less invasive but may not provide permanent relief or prevention of bone damage.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, any pain or discomfort is managed with anesthesia. Postoperative pain is usually mild to moderate and can be controlled with medication. Some swelling and bruising may occur initially. Patients should follow all post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.