Cryosurgery and electrosurgery in skin cancer medicine

The "Cryosurgery and Electrosurgery in Skin Cancer Medicine" course is an essential resource for healthcare professionals looking to enhance their expertise in non-invasive skin cancer treatments. Led by Dr. Richard Usatine, a renowned expert in dermatology, the course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical demonstrations to empower participants with effective and safe surgical techniques.

Unit 1: Cryosurgery in Skin Cancer Medicine
This unit introduces the principles and mechanisms of cryosurgery, highlighting its effectiveness in treating premalignant and malignant lesions such as actinic keratoses, superficial BCC, and SCC in situ. Key topics include:
- Mechanism of Action: Understanding cell destruction through freezing and thawing cycles.
- Techniques and Tools: Exploring the use of liquid nitrogen, spray methods, and cryoprobes.
- Treatment Planning: Guidelines for freeze times, halo diameters, and freeze-thaw cycles tailored to lesion types.
- Clinical Applications: Case studies demonstrating cryosurgery’s application in different scenarios.
- Complications and Management: Addressing side effects like hypopigmentation, blistering, and eschar formation.
Participants will gain confidence in performing cryosurgery with precision, ensuring patient safety and maximising treatment success.

Unit 2: Electrosurgery in Skin Cancer Medicine
This unit focuses on the application of electrosurgery, emphasising its role in the treatment of superficial and non-aggressive skin cancers. Core components include:
- Electrosurgical Techniques: Understanding the nuances of electrodesiccation and curettage.
- Indications and Contraindications: Identifying suitable lesions and avoiding risks associated with aggressive cancers or specific anatomical areas.
- Procedure Mastery: Step-by-step demonstrations of curettage and electrodesiccation cycles, highlighting best practices.
- Evidence-Based Outcomes: Review of recurrence rates and comparative studies showcasing the efficacy of electrosurgery in low-risk lesions.
- Case Studies: Real-life examples of successful electrosurgical interventions, addressing patient preferences and aesthetic outcomes.
This unit equips practitioners with the skills to effectively manage lesions while minimising complications and ensuring optimal cosmetic results.

Through detailed modules, clinical imagery, and expert insights, this course provides a solid foundation in cryosurgery and electrosurgery for skin cancer management. Participants will leave equipped to incorporate these techniques into their practice with confidence and precision.