Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Presacral or Sacrococcygeal Tumor
Common Name(s): Removal of Tailbone Tumor, Sacral Tumor Surgery

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves the surgical removal of a tumor located in the presacral or sacrococcygeal region, which is near the lower spine and tailbone.

Purpose

This procedure addresses the presence of a tumor in the presacral or sacrococcygeal region, which may cause pain, discomfort, or other symptoms. The goal is to remove the tumor to alleviate symptoms, prevent further growth, and reduce the risk of complications.

Indications

• Persistent pain or discomfort in the lower back or tailbone area.
• Presence of a palpable mass in the sacral or coccygeal region.
• Imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT scan) showing a tumor in the area.
• Symptoms of nerve compression or bowel/bladder dysfunction due to the tumor.
• Lack of response to non-surgical treatments.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours prior to surgery.
• Instructions will be given regarding the adjustment or discontinuation of certain medications.
• Preoperative diagnostic tests, such as blood work and imaging studies, are typically required.
• A preoperative consultation to discuss the procedure, risks, and recovery process.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility.
2. The surgical area is cleaned and sterilized.
3. An incision is made over the affected area to access the tumor.
4. The tumor is carefully dissected from the surrounding tissues.
5. The tumor is removed, and the surgical site is examined for completeness.
6. The incision is closed using sutures or staples.
7. A dressing is applied to the surgical site.

Tools and equipment used may include surgical scalpels, retractors, clamps, and possibly electrocautery devices. General anesthesia details involve the use of an anesthesiologist to monitor the patient throughout the procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the tumor.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical technician

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
• Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves.
• Postoperative pain or discomfort.
• Scarring or delayed wound healing.
• Rare risks include deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or complications related to anesthesia.

Benefits

• Relief from pain and discomfort caused by the tumor.
• Prevention of tumor growth and associated complications.
• Improved mobility and function.
• Reduced risk of malignant transformation in some cases.

Recovery

• Patients may need to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days post-surgery.
• Pain management will be provided through medications.
• Instructions on wound care and activity restrictions will be given.
• Recovery time varies but generally spans several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical management, including pain relief and physical therapy.
• Radiotherapy or chemotherapy in specific cases where surgery is not possible.
• Pros and cons of alternatives include less immediate relief and potential for prolonged treatment time.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under general anesthesia and will not feel pain. After the procedure, the patient may experience discomfort and pain at the surgical site, which can be managed with medications. Physical activity may be limited initially, and there will be instructions to follow for wound care and recovery to ensure the best outcome.