Basal cell carcinoma: excision with immediate intraoperative tissue expansion

Tissue expansion in dermatologic surgery has gained wide acceptance. We report the case of a patient with basal cell carcinoma in whom a Foley catheter was used for immediate intraoperative tissue expansion. Wound tension was decreased significantly and primary closure obtained. This technique is appropriate for office surgical procedures and provides an alternative approach to wound closure with flaps and grafts. The Foley catheter is an inexpensive and disposable tissue expander.