This comprehensive course provides in-depth training in skin cancer surgery, focusing on the essential principles, anatomy, and techniques required for effective patient care. Through seven detailed units, participants will enhance their understanding of surgical procedures, equipment, and techniques, improving both practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
Unit 1: Introduction and Surgical Facilities
This unit introduces participants to the importance of understanding surgical objectives, such as improving skin cancer surgery skills. Dr. Tony Dicker covers the optimal setup of surgical facilities, including lighting, adjustable beds, and the organization of surgical tools and instruments to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
Unit 2: Skin Tension Lines and Direction of Closure
This unit explores the importance of skin tension lines, Langer's lines, and relaxed skin tension lines in determining the best direction for surgical closure. It also discusses methods for achieving optimal aesthetic and functional outcomes when closing wounds after tumor removal.
Unit 3: The Ellipse
Unit 3 focuses on the elliptical excision technique, one of the most common procedures in skin cancer surgery. It covers key concepts like margin setting, achieving a three-to-one length-to-width ratio, and ensuring flat, vertical edges to minimize scarring.
Unit 4: Sutures and Needles
This unit dives into the various types of sutures and needles used in skin cancer surgery. It distinguishes between absorbable and non-absorbable sutures, monofilament versus multifilament, and the importance of knot strength and tensile strength. Needle types and appropriate usage in different body areas are also explained.
Unit 5: Anatomy
Unit 5 provides a detailed review of skin layers, important nerves, and the anatomy relevant to skin cancer surgery. It emphasizes the importance of understanding nerve locations to avoid permanent damage during procedures and outlines how to mitigate these risks.
Unit 6: Documentation and Consent
This unit covers the medico-legal importance of documentation in surgical procedures. It explains best practices for recording procedural details, maintaining medical records, and ensuring informed consent. The use of photographs as part of the medical record is also highlighted.
Unit 7: Clinic Set-up and Practice Efficiency
The final unit discusses strategies for improving clinic efficiency, such as establishing systematic workflows, utilizing proper lighting, and ensuring team coordination. It also emphasizes the importance of effective communication between practitioners, nursing staff, and patients.
This course provides a solid foundation in surgical anatomy, techniques, and practical skills, with real-world applications for general practitioners specializing in skin cancer surgery.
All degree qualified medical practitioners.
