Perioperative Anxiety Associated With Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Survey-Based Study.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Psychology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS)-associated anxiety is a significant concern impacting patient experience.
• Identifying risk factors for MMS anxiety is crucial for improving patient satisfaction and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors associated with MMS-induced anxiety in nonmelanoma skin cancer patients.
• To explore the relationship between patient demographics, surgical characteristics, and perioperative anxiety.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional case series design was employed.
• Data collected included patient demographics, surgical locations, perioperative anxiety levels, and quality of life (QoL).
• Adjusted linear and logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of MMS-associated anxiety.

Main Results:

• Anxiety was significantly higher for surgeries in the eyelid area compared to other facial and non-facial sites.
• Patients with graduate degrees reported less anxiety than those with lower educational attainment.
• Increased perioperative anxiety correlated with a greater negative impact on QoL.

Conclusions:

• Surgical location (eyelid area) and educational level are key predictors of perioperative anxiety in MMS patients.
• Perioperative anxiety negatively affects patient quality of life.
• Further research is needed to develop effective management strategies for MMS-associated anxiety.