PROCEDURES
Excision of Skin Cancers
What is skin cancer excision?
Skin cancer excision is the surgical resection of cancerous growths or lesions on the skin’s surface. Before deciding on skin cancer excision, Dr Ndongeni must examine the skin and check for any changes that may signify cancer. Further testing may be needed to confirm a diagnosis of skin cancer. For example, a skin biopsy may be conducted to determine whether cancer is present or has spread to other body regions. Additional testing will therefore be able to classify the type of skin cancer and its stage.
How do you perform skin cancer excision?
Skin cancer excision is a surgical procedure carried out to remove low to medium-risk skin cancers. Your dermatologist will first use a local anaesthetic to numb the affected area of the skin. Next, Dr Ndongeni cuts out the tumour and removes a healthy margin of surrounding skin. Afterwards, he closes the remaining skin using stitches. As a result, the patient may be left with a scar about the size of the cut made during the procedure.
Surgical excision is usually reserved for low-risk tumours, which can be done in Dr Ndongeni’s rooms. However, more complex tumours will need to be removed in the hospital while the patient is placed under general anaesthetic. If it’s a day procedure to treat a low-grade tumour, you will be able to return home the same day. However, for higher-risk tumours, patients are required to stay overnight in the hospital for further observation.
Dr Ndongeni will ask that you keep the wound dry for at least 24 hours. Then, he will provide postoperative care instructions, which involve changing and removing the bandage and instructions on applying antibiotic ointment to the area.
Is a skin biopsy required beforehand?
The sample (healthy margin of tissue) is typically sent to the laboratory for further analysis. Should the pathologist determine the growth present with cancer, Dr Ndongeni will prepare for its removal.
Is skin cancer excision safe?
Skin cancer excision is a relatively safe surgery meant to remove the cancer entirely. However, like any surgical procedure, there may be risks involved.
The procedure lasts thirty minutes or more, depending on the grade of the cancer. No. Your dermatologist will discuss pain relief protocol during the procedure with you. Normally, a local anaesthetic is administered to treat a low-grade tumour.
