Scalpel excision of basal cell carcinomas

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer.
• Effective surgical excision is crucial for BCC management and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy and cosmetic outcomes of surgical excision for basal cell carcinoma.
• To identify recurrence patterns and associated risk factors in BCC treatment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 468 surgically excised basal cell carcinomas from 446 patients.
• Data collected from 1955 to 1967 at a specialized Skin and Cancer Unit.
• Follow-up included recurrence rates, re-treatment success, and cosmetic assessments.

Main Results:

• A five-year cumulative recurrence rate of 6.8% was observed.
• Highest recurrence rates were noted in periocular, scalp, and nose/paranasal regions.
• 99.1% of recurrences were cured after re-treatment, with over 70% achieving good or excellent cosmetic results postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• Surgical excision is a highly effective treatment for basal cell carcinoma, with a low overall recurrence rate.
• Prompt re-treatment of recurrences ensures high cure rates and satisfactory cosmetic outcomes.
• Awareness of high-risk anatomical locations can guide surgical planning and follow-up strategies.