Dermatologic Surgeons (dermatologic + surgeon)

Distribution by Scientific Domains


Selected Abstracts


Relevance of Cosmeceuticals to the Dermatologic Surgeon

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2005
Harold J. Brody MD
Background. The dermatologic surgeon is the dermatologist with special expertise in the surgical care of the health and beauty of the skin. Objectives, Methods, Results. There is no better arena for the use of topical regimens to preserve skin quality than in the time interval devoted to before and after care with respect to surgical procedures. Conclusion. Many of these regimens can be tailor devised with topical drugs and cosmeceuticals together in proper balance in the patient's best interest for affordable health care. HAROLD J. BRODY, MD, HAS INDICATED NO SIGNIFICANT INTEREST WITH COMMERCIAL SUPPORTERS. [source]


Frequency of Use of Suturing and Repair Techniques Preferred by Dermatologic Surgeons

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2006
BETH ADAMS MD
BACKGROUND There are many closure techniques and suture types available to cutaneous surgeons. Evidence-based data are not available regarding the frequency of use of these techniques by experienced practitioners. OBJECTIVE To quantify, by anatomic site, the frequency of use of common closure techniques and suture types by cutaneous surgeons. METHOD A prospective survey of the members of the Association of Academic Dermatologic Surgeons that used length-calibrated visual-analog scales to elicit the frequency of use of specific suture techniques. RESULTS A response rate of 60% (61/101) indicated reliability of the received data. Epidermal layers were closed most often, in descending order, by simple interrupted sutures (38,50%), simple running sutures (37,42%), and vertical mattress sutures (3,8%), with subcuticular sutures used more often on the trunk and extremities (28%). The most commonly used superficial sutures were nylon (51%) and polypropylene (44%), and the most common absorbable suture was polyglactin 910 (73%). Bilayered closures, undermining, and electrocoagulation were used, on average, in 90% or more sutured repairs. The median diameters (defined as longest extent along any axis) of most final wound defects were 1.1 to 2.0 cm (56%) or 2.1 to 3.0 cm (37%). Fifty-four percent of wounds were repaired by primary closure, 20% with local flaps, and 10% with skin grafting, with the remaining 15% left to heal by second intent (10%) or referred for repair (5%). Experience-related differences were detected in defect size and closure technique: defects less than 2 cm in diameter were seen by less experienced surgeons, and defects greater than 2 cm by more experienced surgeons (Wilcoxon's rank-sum test: p=.02). But more experienced surgeons were less likely to use bilayered closures (r=,0.28, p=.036) and undermining (r=,0.28, p=.035). CONCLUSIONS There is widespread consensus among cutaneous surgeons regarding optimal suture selection and closure technique by anatomic location. More experienced surgeons tend to repair larger defects but, possibly because of their increased confidence and skill, rely on less complicated repairs. [source]


Antibiotic Prophylaxis Guideline Awareness and Antibiotic Prophylaxis Use Among New York State Dermatologic Surgeons

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2002
Noah Scheinfeld JD
background. Use of antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery patients remains controversial and several sets of guidelines exist. objective. We investigated dermatologic surgeon's awareness of the American Heart Association (AHA) 1997 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines, their use of prophylactic antibiotics, and their practices as compared with the Haas and Grekin's 1995 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines. methods. We mailed postage-paid questionnaires regarding AHA guideline awareness and antibiotic prophylaxis use to the 235 New York State members of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). We received 87 replies. results. Most participants recognize AHA guidelines and claim to follow them. We reiterate previous studies' findings. Most dermatologic surgeons use antibiotics appropriately. However, antibiotics are occasionally overused or dosed outside the guidelines. Many participants prescribe antibiotics based on a patient's other physicians' recommendations. Notably, erythromycin is sometimes used, an antibiotic the AHA no longer recommends. conclusion. Dermatologic surgeons commonly use antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent bacterial endocarditis. Based on previous studies, though, the risk of endocarditis following cutaneous surgery is low and thus the use of antibiotic prophylaxis is controversial. Although this practice is appropriate for high-risk patients when skin is contaminated, it is not recommended for noneroded, noninfected skin. We report that dermatologists may be aware of the guidelines, but only seem to partially follow them. Further studies are still needed to establish optimal guidelines. [source]


The Importance of Core Surgical Training for Dermatologists and Dermatologic Surgeons

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2 2002
Robert L. Hewitt MD
No abstract is available for this article. [source]


A Call for Dermatologic Surgeons to Take the Board Examination in Dermatologic Cosmetic Surgery from the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2000
James B. Bridenstine MD
No abstract is available for this article. [source]


Mohs Micrographic Surgery: How ACMS Fellowship Directors Practice

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2009
ANGELA S. CASEY MD
BACKGROUND Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is widely employed in the removal of skin cancer. As this technique becomes more widely employed, it is useful to establish the patterns of care provided by American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS),approved fellowship directors. OBJECTIVE To compile and analyze data collected annually by the ACMS to determine practice patterns and trends in MMS as performed by ACMS-approved fellowship directors. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective study of case logs from 50 fellowship directors obtained from the ACMS detailing case volume, type of cancer treated, location, lesion size, wound size, number of stages, referral percentage, and type of repairs performed. RESULTS Annual case volume per surgeon has increased linearly. The incidence of squamous cell carcinoma treated using MMS is rising steadily. The size of lesions treated using MMS has decreased slightly over several decades, as has the number of stages of MMS taken per lesion. The majority of MMS performed by fellowship directors is for skin cancer on the face. Dermatologic surgeons perform most of their own reconstructions. Academic and private fellowship practice patterns are nearly identical. CONCLUSIONS ACMS-approved fellowship directors use MMS mainly for facial skin cancers, and they perform most of their own reconstructions. Practice patterns for most fellowship directors are similar. Private fellowships and academic fellowships are similar in scope and practice. [source]


Antibiotic Prophylaxis Guideline Awareness and Antibiotic Prophylaxis Use Among New York State Dermatologic Surgeons

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2002
Noah Scheinfeld JD
background. Use of antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery patients remains controversial and several sets of guidelines exist. objective. We investigated dermatologic surgeon's awareness of the American Heart Association (AHA) 1997 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines, their use of prophylactic antibiotics, and their practices as compared with the Haas and Grekin's 1995 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines. methods. We mailed postage-paid questionnaires regarding AHA guideline awareness and antibiotic prophylaxis use to the 235 New York State members of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). We received 87 replies. results. Most participants recognize AHA guidelines and claim to follow them. We reiterate previous studies' findings. Most dermatologic surgeons use antibiotics appropriately. However, antibiotics are occasionally overused or dosed outside the guidelines. Many participants prescribe antibiotics based on a patient's other physicians' recommendations. Notably, erythromycin is sometimes used, an antibiotic the AHA no longer recommends. conclusion. Dermatologic surgeons commonly use antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent bacterial endocarditis. Based on previous studies, though, the risk of endocarditis following cutaneous surgery is low and thus the use of antibiotic prophylaxis is controversial. Although this practice is appropriate for high-risk patients when skin is contaminated, it is not recommended for noneroded, noninfected skin. We report that dermatologists may be aware of the guidelines, but only seem to partially follow them. Further studies are still needed to establish optimal guidelines. [source]


A History of Dermatologic Surgery in the United States

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 1 2000
William P. Coleman III MD
Background. Dermatologic surgery has a long and distinguished history in the United States. Objective. To examine the specific contributions of American dermatologic surgeons. Method. The medical literature on cutaneous reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for the last century and a half was researched. Results. Numerous American dermatologic surgeons have had a major impact on scientific and technological discoveries in cutaneous surgery. Dermatologic surgeons have been significantly involved in cutaneous surgery since the second half of the 19th century. Dermatologic surgeons have contributed many important advances to the fields of chemical peeling, cryosurgery, dermabrasion, electrosurgery, hair transplantation, soft tissue augmentation, tumescent liposuction, laser surgery, phlebology, Mohs chemosurgery, cutaneous reconstruction, wound healing, botulium toxin, blepharoplasty, and rhytidectomy. Conclusion. Dermatologic surgeons in the United States have contributed significantly to the history of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Dermatologic surgeons have been leaders in advancing this field and are poised to continue in the future. [source]


Multiple Primary Acral Melanomas in African-Americans: A Case Series and Review of the Literature

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 1 2007
ANGELA C. S. HUTCHESON MD
BACKGROUND Although melanoma accounts for only 4% to 5% of all skin cancers in the United States, it causes most skin cancer,related deaths. We describe a unique group of African-American patients with multiple primary acral lentiginous melanomas (ALMs). OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to review the case histories and management of a cohort of patients in the Mohs practice of our dermatologic surgeon with multiple primary ALM. METHODS This is a case series of patients with multiple ALM identified by chart review from 2000 to 2005. A thorough review of the literature was performed. RESULTS Four patients, all African-American, were identified with multiple ALM. All patients were managed with excision or Mohs micrographic surgery utilizing permanent sections. None of the patients with ALM had melanomas at nonacral sites or other types of skin cancer. Several had acral melanosis. Information in the literature on patients with multiple primary acral melanomas was insufficient. CONCLUSION Patients with multiple acral melanomas have not, to our knowledge, been reported thus far. It can be extrapolated from current literature, however, that appropriate management of these patients, including staging work and surgical intervention, is to be determined by the individual characteristics of the melanoma and the patient's concomitant risk factors, if any. [source]


Atrophic and a Mixed Pattern of Acne Scars Improved With a 1320-nm Nd:YAG Laser

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2003
Arlene S. Rogachefsky MD
Background. Acne scar correction remains a challenge to the dermatologic surgeon. With nonablative laser resurfacing, this correction is imputed to dermal collagen remodeling and acne scar reorganization. Although atrophic acne scars tend to respond to laser treatment, the deeper ice pick and boxcar scars tend to be laser resistant. Objective. To investigate the treatment of atrophic and a mixed pattern of facial acne scars, we evaluated a 1320-nm Nd:YAG laser. Twelve subjects with atrophic facial acne scars (N=6) or a combination of atrophic and pitted, sclerotic, or boxcar scars (N=6) received three laser treatments. Physician and patient acne scar ratings were performed at baseline and at 6 months after the last treatment. Acne scars were rated with a 10-point severity scale. Results. Mean acne scar improvement was 1.5 points on physician assessments (P=0.002) and 2.2 points on patient assessments (P=0.01). Acne scars were rated more severely by patients than by the physician at all intervals. There were no noted complications at 6 months. Conclusion. The 1320-nm Nd:YAG laser is a safe and effective nonablative modality for the improvement of atrophic and a mixed pattern of facial acne scars. [source]


Extraorbital Sebaceous Carcinoma With Rapidly Developing Visceral Metastases

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2003
Deniz Güney Duman MD
Background. Extraorbital sebaceous carcinoma (SC) is a rare carcinoma of the skin but is known to have a good prognosis in terms of metastasis and survival. Objective. To discuss and emphasize through the clinical and histopathologic findings and the aggressive potential of extraorbital SC and to review the corresponding literature. Methods. We present an unusual form of extraorbital SC that has followed an aggressive course and that has metastasized rapidly. Results. Local excision of the primary cutaneous tumor with negative margins did not prevent the rapid and fatal internal organ metastases. The patient did not benefit from the docetaxel chemotherapy regimen applied after the distant metastases were developed. Conclusion. Extraorbital SC may show a poor prognosis. Both the dermatologic surgeon and the dermatologist should be cautious of the risk of local recurrence and distant metastasis when dealing with extraorbital SC. [source]


Dietary Supplements in the Setting of Mohs Surgery

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 6 2002
Siobhan C. Collins MD
background. The use of dietary supplements has become increasingly popular. While many are safe in small doses, others may have potentially harmful effects, particularly in surgical patients. objective. To study the incidence of dietary supplement use in patients presenting for Mohs surgery. methods. One hundred consecutive patients presenting for Mohs surgery completed a questionnaire providing all current medications. During the consultation, the patients were then asked specifically about their current use of any dietary supplements. Responses differing from those on the questionnaire were recorded. results. Forty-nine of 100 patients (49%) were currently taking dietary supplements. Of this group, 17 patients (35%) self-reported the use of supplements; 32 patients (65%) did not. Thirty women (59%) were currently using dietary supplements regularly compared to 19 men (39%). Women were also more likely to self-report the use of supplements compared to men: 14 women (47%) versus three men (15%). Forty-eight of the 100 study patients (48%) were currently taking anticoagulant medications such as aspirin, warfarin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or clopidogrel bisulfate. Fifty instances were noted where patients were taking one or more dietary supplements that have demonstrated anticoagulant properties. Of this group, 21 instances (42%) where patients took a combination of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) anticoagulants and one or more dietary supplements shown to have effects on coagulation were recorded. conclusion. Of the almost 50% of patients taking dietary supplements, one-third reported usage, while two-thirds did not. Women used dietary supplements more frequently than men and were more than three times more likely to offer this information. Furthermore, many supplements have been shown to have effects on coagulation, including vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo, feverfew, and fish oils. Use of these substances alone or in combination may potentiate the anticoagulant effects of each other or prescribed medications. It is therefore important for the dermatologic surgeon to communicate openly with patients regarding dietary supplements to avoid potential complications during or following surgery. [source]


Powered Liposuction: An Evaluation of Currently Available Instrumentation

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2002
Timothy Corcoran Flynn MD
background. Over the past several years, powered liposuction instruments have become available to the dermatologic surgeon. These instruments all move the cannula forward and backward 2,12 mm with rapidity. This motion simulates the standard human movement of the cannula and facilitates movement through the tissue. Powered liposuction may help to prevent surgeon fatigue and has recently been shown to aid in the efficacy of fat removal. objective. To compare and contrast currently available powered liposuction instruments, to obtain objective engineering data on the instruments, and to compare the instruments when used on actual liposuction cases. methods. Five currently available powered liposuction systems were evaluated by the author. Each instrument was used with a 3 mm dual side port cannula on patients undergoing tumescent liposuction. An independent engineering firm, who collected objective measurements such as weight, stroke force, temperature, and vibration measurements on the instruments, evaluated the units. Noise measurements were obtained. results. Each of the five systems showed advantages and disadvantages. Important issues were the size and weight of the units, as well as whether they were driven electrically or pneumatically. Stroke force is variable (range 9.5,30 pounds). The noise of the units ranged between 60 and 87 dB. Vibration measurements varied from instrument to instrument. Units produced a variable amount of heat ranging from 77°F to 102°F. Most instruments are autoclavable, and one system is disposable. Build quality and reliability varied with the instrument. conclusion. Instruments for powered liposuction have emerged in the last 2 years, with each instrument having distinct advantages and disadvantages. This article reviews five currently available powered liposuction instruments and presents objective measurements as well as the author's experience using the instruments. [source]


The Surgical Looking Glass: A Readily Available Safeguard Against Eye Splash Injury/Contamination During Infiltration of Anesthesia for Cysts and Other "Porous" Lesions of the Skin

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2002
Patrick R. Carrington MD
Background. "Breaks" in barrier precautions are a definite abrogating influence on the effectiveness of "universal precautions." Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons are exposed to significant infectious agents on a daily basis, especially due to the high number of minor surgical procedures performed. Backsplash, spray, and eye splash of bodily fluids during these procedures place the surgeon at a high risk of contamination/infection via the conjunctival membranes. The surgical looking glass is a simple utility based on inexpensive equipment already in place in the physician's office which protects the eyes and face during infiltrative anesthesia or incision of cysts and other lesions. Objective. To offer a simple and inexpensive utility to assist with protection from and reduction of contamination/infection of the ocular mucous membranes during surgical procedures. Methods. Utilizing one or two readily available microscope slides overlying the injection site during local infiltrative anesthesia, backsplash or spray can be contained. Results. This utility is effective in containment of backsplash or spray of anesthesia or bodily fluids during even minor surgical procedures. Conclusion. The surgical looking glass can enhance safety and promote "universal precautions" during even minor surgical procedures or infiltration of anesthesia into more porous areas or lesions for the practicing dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon. The pragmatic, practical, and inexpensive nature of the surgical looking glass invites its use on a daily basis by the practicing dermatologist. [source]


Modified Burow's Wedge Flap for Upper Lateral Lip Defects

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 5 2000
Minh Dang MD
Background. There are fundamental concepts we use in managing surgical defects. Whether planning a primary closure or a local flap, we frequently modify the basic design to maximize aesthetic outcomes, taking into consideration a number of factors including the location of the defect and tissue availability. Objective. We describe a modified Burow's wedge flap for upper lateral lip defects. Method. Report of an illustrated case. Result. A patient with an upper lip defect was successfully reconstructed using the modified Burow's wedge flap, where the Burrow's wedge is placed on the mucocutaneous lip. Conclusion. Certain modifications of commonly used reconstructive techniques can be utilized in specific situations to enhance cosmesis. For the Burow's wedge flap, the dermatologic surgeon has several options in placing the Burow's triangle. This is an example of how alternatives in a closure can be used depending on the laxity of the skin and the size of the defect. Advantages and disadvantages of this alternative placement of the Burow's triangle are discussed. [source]


Recent Trends in Cosmetic and Surgical Procedure Volumes in Dermatologic Surgery

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2009
EMILY P. TIERNEY MD
BACKGROUND The number of cosmetic and noncosmetic surgical procedures performed by dermatologic surgeons has been rising rapidly, but there are few consistent data sources allowing procedure volumes to be tracked over time. METHODS American Society for Dermatologic Surgery member survey in 2001 to 2007 reporting cosmetic and noncosmetic procedural volumes (300,500 surgeons surveyed, response rate of 31,44%). RESULTS In 2001, dermatologic surgeons performed an estimated 3.4 million cosmetic and noncosmetic surgical procedures; in 2007, it was estimated that a total of 7.6 million procedures were performed (120.2% rate of growth between 2001 and 2007). The procedures with the greatest increase during this time period were soft tissue augmentation (405.0% increase), botulinum toxin injections (324.4% increase), and nonablative skin rejuvenation (laser, light, and radiofrequency sources) (330.7% increase). More modest increases were noted in skin cancer procedures (85.8% increase) and ablative resurfacing procedures (66.8% increase). CONCLUSION The magnitude of growth in procedural volumes over the last 8 years reflects the advancements in dermatologic surgery in treatments for skin cancer and in treatment of photoaging and cosmetic enhancement of the skin. [source]


Recent Changes in the Workforce and Practice of Dermatologic Surgery

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 3 2009
EMILY P. TIERNEY MD
BACKGROUND The increasing number of American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) fellowship positions over the last decade has resulted in a greater number of fellowship-trained surgeons in dermatologic surgery. METHODS Mohs micrographic fellowship-trained surgeons (MMFTSs) and non-Mohs fellowship-trained surgeons performing Mohs micrographic surgery (NMMFTSs) were compared using the American Academy of Dermatology Practice Profile Survey (2002/05). An analysis of recent Mohs fellowship classes was also performed. RESULTS In 2005, there was an equivalent proportion of MMFTSs and NMMFTSs in the workforce (ratio MMFTS:NMMFTS=0.9) but, in 2005, there was a shift in the youngest age cohort (29,39) to a greater proportion of MMFTSs (MMFTS:NMMFTS=1.55). In 2005, the youngest MMFTSs (29,39) were more likely to be female (47.1%) than of MMFTSs overall (24%). MMFTSs were 5 times as likely to be in full-time academic positions and performed 2 to 3 times as many Mohs cases per week as NMMFTSs. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with demographic shifts in dermatology, differences have emerged in the demographics, surgical volumes, and settings of MMFTSs and NMMFTSs. Recent increases in the ACMS fellowship positions have resulted in a greater proportion of MMFTSs among younger dermatologic surgeons. It will be important to follow how this increase in fellowship trainees affects the dermatologic surgery workforce. [source]


Histologic Study of Depressed Acne Scars Treated with Serial High-Concentration (95%) Trichloroacetic Acid

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 8 2006
ANTHONY YUG MD
BACKGROUND Acne scarring is a common manifestation that remains a therapeutic challenge to dermatologists, dermatologic surgeons, and plastic surgeons. Although multiple therapeutic modalities exist, treatment often remains inadequate. The use of high-concentration (95%) trichloroacetic acid (TCA) applied focally to atrophic acne scars has been described. OBJECTIVE The current study confirms the utility of focal application of 95% TCA to acne scars in addition to a histologic examination of this technique. METHODS Acne scars in three patients were treated with focal 95% TCA by serial application. Wooden applicators were used to apply TCA focally and repeated at 6-week intervals for a total of six treatments. Punch biopsies were performed at baseline and at 1 year postoperatively. Histologic examination was performed with routine hematoxylin/eosin, Masson trichrome, and Verhoeff-van Gieson staining. RESULTS Clinical examination revealed apparent cosmetic improvement in both depth and appearance of acne scars. Patient satisfaction was high. Histologic examination demonstrated a decrease in the depth of acne scars. In addition, increased collagen fibers and fragmentation of elastic fibers were noted. There were no complications from the procedure. CONCLUSION Focal application of high-concentration TCA to atrophic and "ice-pick" acne scars appears to produce clinical improvement. Histologic changes of this technique are described. [source]


Beauty Versus Medicine: The Nonphysician Practice of Dermatologic Surgery

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2003
Harold J. Brody MD
Background This investigation was initiated because of a growing concern by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery about the proliferation of nonphysicians practicing medicine and its impact on public health, safety, and welfare. Objective Prompted by an alarming rise in anecdotal reports among dermatologic surgeons, the study sought to determine whether there was a significant increase in the number of patients seeking corrective treatment due to complications from laser and light-based hair removal, subsurface laser/light rejuvenation techniques, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, injectables, and other cosmetic medical/surgical procedures performed by nonphysicians without adequate training or supervision. Methods A survey of 2,400 American Society for Dermatologic Surgery members in July 2001 and in-depth phone interviews with eight patients who experienced complications from nonphysicians performing cosmetic dermatologic surgery procedures were conducted. Results Survey data and qualitative research results attributed patient complications primarily to "nonphysician operators" such as cosmetic technicians, estheticians, and employees of medical/dental professionals who performed various invasive medical procedures outside of their scope of training or with inadequate or no physician supervision. Conclusion The results underscore the need for improved awareness, legislation, and enforcement regarding the nonphysician practice of medicine, along with further study of this issue. [source]


Antibiotic Prophylaxis Guideline Awareness and Antibiotic Prophylaxis Use Among New York State Dermatologic Surgeons

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 9 2002
Noah Scheinfeld JD
background. Use of antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery patients remains controversial and several sets of guidelines exist. objective. We investigated dermatologic surgeon's awareness of the American Heart Association (AHA) 1997 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines, their use of prophylactic antibiotics, and their practices as compared with the Haas and Grekin's 1995 antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines. methods. We mailed postage-paid questionnaires regarding AHA guideline awareness and antibiotic prophylaxis use to the 235 New York State members of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS). We received 87 replies. results. Most participants recognize AHA guidelines and claim to follow them. We reiterate previous studies' findings. Most dermatologic surgeons use antibiotics appropriately. However, antibiotics are occasionally overused or dosed outside the guidelines. Many participants prescribe antibiotics based on a patient's other physicians' recommendations. Notably, erythromycin is sometimes used, an antibiotic the AHA no longer recommends. conclusion. Dermatologic surgeons commonly use antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent bacterial endocarditis. Based on previous studies, though, the risk of endocarditis following cutaneous surgery is low and thus the use of antibiotic prophylaxis is controversial. Although this practice is appropriate for high-risk patients when skin is contaminated, it is not recommended for noneroded, noninfected skin. We report that dermatologists may be aware of the guidelines, but only seem to partially follow them. Further studies are still needed to establish optimal guidelines. [source]


The Surgical Looking Glass: A Readily Available Safeguard Against Eye Splash Injury/Contamination During Infiltration of Anesthesia for Cysts and Other "Porous" Lesions of the Skin

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2002
Patrick R. Carrington MD
Background. "Breaks" in barrier precautions are a definite abrogating influence on the effectiveness of "universal precautions." Dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons are exposed to significant infectious agents on a daily basis, especially due to the high number of minor surgical procedures performed. Backsplash, spray, and eye splash of bodily fluids during these procedures place the surgeon at a high risk of contamination/infection via the conjunctival membranes. The surgical looking glass is a simple utility based on inexpensive equipment already in place in the physician's office which protects the eyes and face during infiltrative anesthesia or incision of cysts and other lesions. Objective. To offer a simple and inexpensive utility to assist with protection from and reduction of contamination/infection of the ocular mucous membranes during surgical procedures. Methods. Utilizing one or two readily available microscope slides overlying the injection site during local infiltrative anesthesia, backsplash or spray can be contained. Results. This utility is effective in containment of backsplash or spray of anesthesia or bodily fluids during even minor surgical procedures. Conclusion. The surgical looking glass can enhance safety and promote "universal precautions" during even minor surgical procedures or infiltration of anesthesia into more porous areas or lesions for the practicing dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon. The pragmatic, practical, and inexpensive nature of the surgical looking glass invites its use on a daily basis by the practicing dermatologist. [source]


A History of Dermatologic Surgery in the United States

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 1 2000
William P. Coleman III MD
Background. Dermatologic surgery has a long and distinguished history in the United States. Objective. To examine the specific contributions of American dermatologic surgeons. Method. The medical literature on cutaneous reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for the last century and a half was researched. Results. Numerous American dermatologic surgeons have had a major impact on scientific and technological discoveries in cutaneous surgery. Dermatologic surgeons have been significantly involved in cutaneous surgery since the second half of the 19th century. Dermatologic surgeons have contributed many important advances to the fields of chemical peeling, cryosurgery, dermabrasion, electrosurgery, hair transplantation, soft tissue augmentation, tumescent liposuction, laser surgery, phlebology, Mohs chemosurgery, cutaneous reconstruction, wound healing, botulium toxin, blepharoplasty, and rhytidectomy. Conclusion. Dermatologic surgeons in the United States have contributed significantly to the history of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. Dermatologic surgeons have been leaders in advancing this field and are poised to continue in the future. [source]


The east,west advancement flap (horizontal advancement flap) to repair a defect on the nose ala

JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 8 2010
A Ascari-Raccagni
Abstract Background, The repair of an alar nasal defect is a frequent challenge for dermatologic surgeons for reasons of the high rate of non-melanoma cancers in the area. Objective, Our aim was to describe the use of an east,west cheek-based flap (horizontal advancement flap) to repair a surgical defect on the nose ala. Methods, Benefits and limits of this surgical procedure are evaluated. Result, The resulting S-shaped scar was well-camouflaged among the natural skin lines (melolabial fold and melonasal junction). No architectural distortion of the nose resulted from the procedure. Conclusion, In selected patients with small-to-medium-size defects of the nasal ala, the horizontal advancement flap is a simple, reliable and aesthetic reconstruction option. [source]