Common complementary and alternative therapies with potential use in dermatologic surgery: risks and benefits

Area of Science:

• Dermatologic Surgery
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)

Background:

• Ambulatory surgery patients commonly utilize CAM therapies.
• CAM use can influence perioperative outcomes, presenting both benefits and risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance understanding of CAM's impact on dermatologic surgery.
• To enable dermatologists to leverage therapeutic CAM effects and minimize complications.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a PubMed literature search on CAM in dermatologic and surgical contexts.
• Identified common CAM therapies with potential perioperative effects in dermatology.
• Reviewed existing literature for beneficial and detrimental effects of selected CAM therapies.

Main Results:

• Numerous CAM products are used perioperatively.
• Evidence suggests potential benefits from therapies including bromelain, honey, arnica, vitamin C, and turmeric.
• Potential complications encompass platelet inhibition, contact dermatitis, and systemic toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Selected CAM therapies show promise for wound healing, anti-inflammatory effects, and reducing edema/purpura.
• High CAM usage necessitates surgeon awareness of benefits and risks.
• Further research is needed to optimize CAM's role in dermatologic surgery outcomes.