Name of the Procedure:

Excision of Benign Lesion up to 1.25 cm (D7410)

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a benign (non-cancerous) growth or lesion on the skin or just below it. The lesion to be removed is no larger than 1.25 cm in diameter.

Purpose

The procedure is designed to remove benign lesions that may be causing discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or have the potential for future complications. The goal is to eliminate the lesion while minimizing scarring and ensuring healthy tissue remains intact.

Indications

• Presence of a benign skin lesion that is bothersome or disfiguring
• Lesions causing pain, itching, or bleeding
• Prevention of potential future complications, such as infection
• Lesions that interfere with normal activities or clothing

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure.
• Fasting is generally not required for this minor procedure.
• A pre-procedure consultation and possibly minor diagnostic tests, like skin assessments, might be needed.

Procedure Description

1. The area around the lesion is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area.
3. Using a scalpel or surgical tool, the surgeon carefully excises the lesion along with a small margin of surrounding tissue to ensure completeness.
4. The excision site is then sutured closed and dressed with a sterile bandage.
5. The excised tissue may be sent for pathological examination if necessary.

Tools include scalpels, surgical scissors, forceps, and suturing materials. Local anesthesia is typically used, ensuring the patient feels no pain during the procedure.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity and size of the lesion.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, dermatologist's office, or minor surgical center.

Personnel

• Dermatologist or a qualified surgeon
• Nurse or medical assistant
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation beyond local anesthesia is needed, although rare for this procedure)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minor bleeding, infection, and scarring at the incision site.
• Rare risks: Allergic reaction to anesthesia, delayed healing, or recurrence of the lesion.

Benefits

• Removal of bothersome or cosmetically concerning lesions.
• Relief from symptoms such as pain, itching, or bleeding.
• Reduced risk of future complications from the lesion.

Recovery

• Patients may experience mild discomfort after the procedure, managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
• Keep the wound clean and dry; follow specific care instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a few days to allow healing.
• A follow-up appointment may be scheduled to check on healing and remove sutures if non-dissolvable ones are used.

Alternatives

• Observation: If the lesion is not problematic, monitoring it for changes might be suggested.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion for removal.
• Laser surgery: Using laser beams to remove the lesion.
• Each alternative has different pros and cons, discussed with the healthcare provider based on the patient's situation and lesion characteristics.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients will only feel a slight prick or pressure due to local anesthesia.
• Post-procedure, mild pain or discomfort is common, manageable with prescribed or OTC pain medications.
• Patients may experience some swelling or redness around the excision site, which should subside within a few days.

Pain management includes taking prescribed pain medications as directed and using ice packs if recommended. Comfort measures such as elevating the site or wearing loose clothing may also be suggested.