Procedure Note

Date: 1 November 2024 A 45-year-old female underwent excision of a suspicious skin lesion from her right forearm. Indication for Procedure: Patient presented with a 1.2 cm irregular, pigmented lesion on the right dorsal forearm, noted to have changed in size and colour over the last 3 months, raising suspicion for melanoma. Biopsy recommended to rule out malignancy and for definitive diagnosis. Procedure: The area on the right dorsal forearm was prepped with chlorhexidine solution and draped in a sterile fashion. Local anaesthesia was achieved with 5ml of 1% Lidocaine with adrenaline infiltrated around the lesion. A fusiform excision was performed with a 3mm margin around the lesion, extending down to the subcutaneous fat. Haemostasis was secured with electrocautery. The wound edges were approximated using 3/0 Prolene interrupted sutures. The excised specimen was placed in formalin for histology. The wound was cleaned and dressed. - Type of suture material used, including gauge and number of sutures: 3/0 Prolene, 4 interrupted sutures. - Type of cautery used, including settings or method: Bipolar cautery, low setting for pinpoint haemostasis. - Description of dressing layers applied, including specific products or techniques: Non-adherent Telfa pad, covered with sterile gauze, secured with Hypafix retention tape. Post-Procedure Instructions: Wound Care Instructions: Keep the wound dry for 48 hours. After 48 hours, gently clean the wound daily with mild soap and water, pat dry, and apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment (e.g., Fucidin). Change dressing daily. Monitor for signs of infection including increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever. Avoid strenuous activity involving the right arm for 1 week. Referral: No referral deemed necessary at this stage. Patient advised to contact the practice if any concerns arise. Follow-up Instructions: Return to the clinic in 10-14 days for suture removal and wound check. Histology results will be discussed at this appointment. Patient advised to book this appointment with reception before leaving. Specimen Collection: One tissue specimen (skin lesion from right forearm) sent for histology to 'Pathology Services Ltd'. Specimen ID: PL2024-5678.