Lipoma CT presentation

Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
Updated on February 02, 2025
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Lipomas are relatively common clinically and are one of the more frequent types of superficial tumors, commonly occurring on the limbs and trunk. Generally, a physical examination and ultrasound are sufficient for an accurate diagnosis of a lipoma, and there is no need for the patient to undergo a CT scan. However, if a CT scan is performed, lipomas can present in the following ways: first, a regular or lobulated mass may be found under the skin with sparse blood flow and a regular shape; second, on a CT scan, lipomas appear as low-density lesions, with CT values typically ranging between -70 HU to -90 HU. Diagnosis of a lipoma can be confirmed through these two observations.

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Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
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Lipomas belong to which department?

Lipomas are relatively superficial tumors. Generally, lipomas fall under the category of general surgery, and general surgeons can easily diagnose and remove them through surgery. However, there are exceptions. If the lipoma is located deeper and in the chest area, it is recommended for the patient to consult the thoracic department for further diagnosis and treatment. If the lipoma is located in the scapular area and is relatively large and deep, it is recommended for the patient to consult the orthopedic department. Orthopedic specialists are more familiar with the local anatomy, which can lead to better treatment outcomes for the patient.

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Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
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How to eliminate lipomas?

Lipomas are relatively common superficial tumors, which are benign tumors caused by subcutaneous fat proliferation. If a lipoma does not cause any obvious clinical symptoms and is relatively small, it may not require treatment. Clinically, if removal of the lipoma is desired, the only treatment is surgical removal. Under local anesthesia, the lipoma can be excised and the surgical incision sutured up to complete the procedure. Medication, physiotherapy, massage, etc., cannot eliminate lipomas. Therefore, as mentioned above, surgery is the only method to remove lipomas.

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Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
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Lipoma outpatient or hospitalization

Lipomas are relatively superficial and clinically classified as surface tumors, typically located beneath the skin. Clinically, lipoma surgeries can generally be conducted in an outpatient setting, performed under local anesthesia. However, this is not absolute. Some lipomas are larger, and performing the surgery under local anesthesia can be very painful for the patient, complicating the complete removal of the lipoma and affecting surgical operations. In such cases, hospitalization and surgery under intravenous anesthesia are generally recommended, as this allows for better patient cooperation and the thorough removal of the lipoma.

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Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
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How is a lipoma treated?

Lipomas are commonly seen in clinical practice and are a type of superficial tumor that are benign. They frequently occur on the limbs and trunk. Lipomas are located subcutaneously and are composed of fatty tissue. If the lipoma is small and the patient does not exhibit any significant clinical symptoms, conservative observation can be adopted as a treatment method. If the lipoma is relatively large, grows rapidly, or is accompanied by concealed pain, surgical treatment can be considered. Clinically, lipomas can be excised under local anesthesia; medication or massage are both ineffective.

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Written by Zeng Xian Fu
General Surgery
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Can people with lipomas eat eggs?

Patients with lipomas can eat eggs; eating eggs does not affect lipomas. In daily life, it is best to avoid overly greasy food and to participate in sports activities. If overweight, it is necessary to begin weight loss soon to prevent excessive subcutaneous fat accumulation, which can lead to the formation of lipomas. If a lipoma is quite large, it can be surgically removed at a local hospital.