Our Summary

This study investigates the effectiveness of a surgical technique for treating large non-cancerous tumors on the head and face. The technique involves gradually expanding the skin near the tumor over 8 to 16 weeks using saline injections. Once the skin has been expanded enough, the tumor is removed and the expanded skin is used to cover the area where the tumor was.

The study looked at 18 patients who had this procedure done between 2018 and 2023. The results were positive, with the tumors successfully removed and the expanded skin effectively covering the affected area. There were a few complications, such as bleeding and infections, but these were rare. One patient had an infection that made the procedure fail, but all the other patients did well and didn’t have any further complications.

The study followed up with patients 6 to 24 months after their surgery and found that the tumors had not returned. The expanded skin used to cover the area where the tumor was removed looked and felt similar to the surrounding skin, and the areas where skin was harvested for expansion healed well without noticeable scarring.

The authors conclude that this technique is a good option for treating large non-cancerous tumors on the head and face.

FAQs

  1. What is the surgical technique used to treat large non-cancerous tumors on the head and face?
  2. What were the main findings of the study on the effectiveness of this tumor resection technique?
  3. Did the study report any complications or side effects from the procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tumor resection is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include keeping the surgical site clean, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important to report any unusual symptoms or signs of infection to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended tumor resection are those with large non-cancerous tumors on the head and face that are causing symptoms such as pain, discomfort, or disfigurement. In some cases, the tumors may be growing rapidly or causing functional issues, making surgical removal necessary. Additionally, patients who are in good overall health and able to tolerate surgery and anesthesia are good candidates for tumor resection.

Timeline

Before tumor resection:

  • Patient consults with a doctor about the presence of a large non-cancerous tumor on the head or face.
  • Doctor recommends surgical removal and explains the process of skin expansion using saline injections.
  • Patient undergoes multiple saline injections over 8 to 16 weeks to gradually expand the skin near the tumor.
  • Skin gradually expands to the desired size, ready for tumor resection surgery.

After tumor resection:

  • Surgeon removes the tumor and uses the expanded skin to cover the area where the tumor was.
  • Patient may experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort post-surgery.
  • Patient is monitored for any complications, such as bleeding or infections.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled 6 to 24 months after surgery to check for tumor recurrence and assess the healing of the skin.

Overall, the patient goes through a process of preparation, surgery, and recovery before and after tumor resection using the skin expansion technique. The study shows positive results with successful tumor removal and effective skin coverage, with minimal complications and good long-term outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with tumor resection using the gradual skin expansion technique?
  2. How long is the recovery time expected to be following this procedure?
  3. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up appointments after the tumor resection?
  4. How likely is it that the tumor will return after the procedure?
  5. Are there any specific post-operative care instructions I should follow to ensure optimal healing and outcomes?
  6. What are the success rates of this surgical technique for treating large non-cancerous tumors on the head and face?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my specific case?
  8. How experienced are you in performing tumor resections using the gradual skin expansion technique?
  9. What can I expect in terms of scarring and aesthetics after the tumor resection?
  10. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of following the procedure?

Reference

Authors: Cui J, Zhang Y, Tang Y, Chu F, Liu W, Bai R, Li Y, Ma X. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2025 Jan-Feb 01;36(1):247-250. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000010671. Epub 2024 Oct 15. PMID: 39404590