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52048 - Wide Excision of Tumour or Deep Cyst

MBS service description:

Tumour or deep cyst (other than a cyst associated with a tooth or tooth fragment unless it has been established by radiological examination that there is a minimum of 5 mm separation between the cyst lining and tooth structure or if a tumour or cyst has been proven by positive histopathology), removal of, requiring wide excision, other than a service to which another item in Groups O3 to O9 applies (H) (Anaes.) (Assist.)
Schedule Fee:
423.25
@85% Benefit Fee:
@75% Benefit Fee:
Last updated on
March 29, 2025

When is item code 52048 (Wide Excision of Tumour or Deep Cyst) typically used?

The need for wide excision of a tumour or deep cyst in the oral and maxillofacial region arises when a lesion—confirmed by radiology or histopathology to be independent of dental structures—extends into deep tissues and exhibits aggressive behavior, requiring extensive removal to ensure complete eradication and prevent recurrence. This procedure, performed in a hospital under anesthesia with assistance, targets significant abnormalities like large cysts or malignancies that threaten bone, muscle, or nerve integrity, necessitating a broader margin of healthy tissue removal than standard excision. It is critical for managing severe cases where depth and potential spread impact maxillofacial function or health.

Indications include:

  • Aggressive cysts: A large mandibular cyst with 5 mm clearance from teeth might invade bone, needing wide excision to prevent fracture or recurrence.
  • Malignant tumours: A deep cheek sarcoma requires extensive removal with margins to stop spread and confirm clearance.
  • Recurrent lesions: A histologically proven cyst that regrows after prior treatment needs wide excision to eliminate all affected tissue.
  • Structural threat: Deep lesions near the jaw joint or neck muscles can impair movement or stability, necessitating comprehensive surgery.

For example, a patient with a 6 cm mandibular cyst confirmed by X-ray might need this to avoid bone loss or nerve damage, requiring hospital care for precision. In aged care, an elderly patient with a recurrent deep cyst could benefit from this to prevent infection or malignancy, given their reduced resilience. The assistant aids in managing the extensive field, while wide excision ensures all pathological tissue is removed, making this service vital for resolving severe, deep-seated maxillofacial threats with lasting impact.

Benefits to the patient

Surgeons performing wide excision of a tumor or deep cyst under anesthesia with assistance (meeting specific diagnostic criteria) provide their patients with comprehensive benefits. A primary advantage is ensuring complete removal. The wide approach eliminates the patient’s lesion entirely, reducing recurrence risk—crucial for 'wide excision benefits.' It also prevents recurrence by excising surrounding margins, offering the patient long-term relief from the condition. Additionally, it protects deep structures by carefully navigating muscle or bone, preserving the patient’s functionality. For surgeons researching 'deep cyst removal advantages,' this assisted procedure ensures patients experience thorough lesion elimination, reduced recurrence, and structural integrity, making it an essential strategy for managing significant deep-tissue pathologies.

Recovery considerations

Recovery of 4-6 weeks with significant swelling; hospital stay may be required.

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