Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 4, 2025

Principles of Rodent Surgery for the New Surgeon
Published on: January 6, 2011
Perioperative Practices in Dermatologic Surgery
Stephen P Erickson1, Samantha L Schneider2, Joel L Cohen3,4
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
Background:
Mohs micrographic surgery is generally safe and well tolerated. Various perioperative practices are employed with the aim of reducing adverse events; however, implementation is variable, and limited efficacy data are available.
Objective:
This study sought to assess perioperative practice patterns among dermatologic surgeons with regards to antibiotic prophylaxis (AP), anticoagulation, activity restrictions, and antiseptic choice.
Methods And Materials:
Two surveys were distributed by the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) and the American Society for Mohs Surgery (ASMS) to their membership via email.
Results:
One hundres seventy-seven surgeons participated, with membership from ACMS (61%), ASMS (35%), or both organizations (4%) represented. Systemic AP is prescribed preoperatively by 96% (162/168) and postoperatively by 91% (161/177) of surgeons for variable clinical indications. Therapeutic antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications are rarely held (3%-5%, 4-7/149), whereas preventative aspirin (30%, 45/149), NSAIDs (25%, 36/145), and supplements known to have an anticoagulant effect (54%, 80/149) are more commonly held. Antiseptic choice and recommended activity restrictions vary.
Conclusion:
Perioperative practices of dermatologic surgeons are variable and, where applicable, may deviate from guidelines. These findings underscore the need for standardization and updated guidelines for perioperative practices in dermatologic surgery.
Insights
Dermatologic surgeons exhibit variable perioperative practices, including antibiotic prophylaxis and medication management, potentially deviating from guidelines. Standardization and updated guidelines are needed for Mohs surgery patient care.
Area of Science:
- Dermatologic Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Mohs micrographic surgery is a widely used, safe procedure.
- Current perioperative practices vary, with limited data on their effectiveness in preventing adverse events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate current perioperative practices among dermatologic surgeons.
- Focus areas include antibiotic prophylaxis, anticoagulation management, activity restrictions, and antiseptic selection.
Main Methods:
- Two surveys were distributed to members of the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) and the American Society for Mohs Surgery (ASMS).
- 177 surgeons participated, representing diverse organizational affiliations.
Main Results:
- High rates of preoperative (96%) and postoperative (91%) antibiotic prophylaxis were reported.
- Therapeutic anticoagulants were rarely discontinued, but preventative aspirin (30%), NSAIDs (25%), and anticoagulant supplements (54%) were more frequently held.
- Practices regarding antiseptic choice and activity restrictions showed variability.
Conclusions:
- Dermatologic surgeons' perioperative practices are inconsistent and may not align with existing guidelines.
- There is a clear need for standardized protocols and updated guidelines to improve perioperative care in dermatologic surgery.
Related Concept Videos
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Cardiomyopathy VII: Pre and Post Operative Nursing Management
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Tracheostomy Suctioning I: Pre-Procedural Steps
Equipment Required
First, gather all necessary equipment: a sterile suction catheter, a sterile disposable container, sterile gloves, a towel or...

