Name of the Procedure:

Excision of lesion of mucosa and submucosa, vestibule of mouth; without repair

Summary

In this procedure, a surgeon removes a lesion (a damaged or abnormal area) from the mucosa and submucosa (the inner layers) of the vestibule of the mouth. This type of excision does not include any repair to the excision site.

Purpose

This procedure addresses issues such as abnormal growths, benign or malignant tumors, cysts, or lesions which may cause discomfort, risk of infection, or other oral health problems. The goal is to remove the lesion for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons, resolving symptoms or preventing future complications.

Indications

• Visible or palpated lesions in the mouth's vestibule area
• Pain or discomfort in the mouth
• Difficulty with oral functions like chewing or speaking
• Suspicion of malignancy
• Recurrent infections or ulcerations in the lesion area

Preparation

• Fasting for a specific period (usually 6-8 hours) if general anesthesia is planned
• Adjustment of medications as advised by the healthcare provider
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (X-rays or MRI), biopsies, and blood tests

Procedure Description

1. The patient is either seated or lying down in a dental chair or surgical bed.
2. Local or general anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is comfortable.
3. The surgical area is cleansed and sterilized.
4. Using a surgical scalpel or laser, the surgeon carefully excises the lesion from the mucosa and submucosa.
5. The excised tissue is collected and may be sent for pathological examination.
6. The surgical site is left to heal naturally without suturing or repair.

Duration

The procedure typically ranges from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and complexity of the lesion.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center equipped for minor surgeries.

Personnel

• Oral Surgeon or Otolaryngologist
• Surgical Nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain at the excision site
• Swelling and bruising
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Rarely, damage to adjacent tissues or structures

Benefits

• Removal of abnormal tissue, improving oral health
• Relief from symptoms such as pain and difficulty in oral functions
• Prevention of potential future complications related to the lesion

Recovery

• Follow post-procedure care instructions, including avoiding certain foods and maintaining oral hygiene
• Pain management with prescribed or over-the-counter medications
• Usually, a recovery period of 1-2 weeks, with follow-up appointments to monitor healing and receive biopsy results

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring of the lesion
• Less invasive treatments such as cryotherapy or laser therapy, depending on lesion type
• Medications for symptomatic relief if surgery is not immediately necessary

Patient Experience

• Minimal discomfort during the procedure due to anesthesia
• Sensation of swelling or soreness in the mouth post-procedure
• Managed pain with prescribed medications
• Temporary adjustments to diet and activities until healing is complete