Patient concerns in the immediate postoperative period after Mohs micrographic surgery Journal Article


Authors: Giordano, C. N.; Mori, S.; Navarrete-Dechent, C.; Dusza, S. W.; Rossi, A. M.; Nehal, K. S.; Lee, E. H.
Article Title: Patient concerns in the immediate postoperative period after Mohs micrographic surgery
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Postoperative concerns after Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) are not well characterized. OBJECTIVE: To better define patient concerns and contributing characteristics in the immediate postoperative period after MMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A standardized telephone encounter template was implemented to better assess patient concerns in the 24-hour postoperative period. A review was then performed of patients undergoing MMS from October 2016 to July 2017 to assess for the most common patient concerns and association with clinical characteristics. RESULTS: We included 307 patients. Overall, 60.6% of patients reported a concern. Fifty-four percent of patients reported pain. Most pain was characterized as "a little" (67.7%). On univariate analysis, flap repairs, location on the upper extremities, and swelling were associated with higher mean postoperative pain. Tumor type was not associated with increased pain. On multivariate analyses, patients with larger defects and associated edema were statistically significantly associated with higher degrees of pain. CONCLUSION: Over half of patients experience postoperative concerns after MMS, most commonly pain. The immediate postoperative period may be an optimal time to identify patient concerns allowing for reassurance or early intervention when necessary.
Journal Title: Dermatologic Surgery
Volume: 46
Issue: 4
ISSN: 1076-0512
Publisher: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins  
Date Published: 2020-04-01
Start Page: 514
End Page: 518
Language: English
DOI: 10.1097/dss.0000000000002116
PUBMED: 31592922
PROVIDER: scopus
PMCID: PMC8283685
DOI/URL:
Notes: Article -- Source: Scopus
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MSK Authors
  1. Kishwer S Nehal
    278 Nehal
  2. Stephen Dusza
    288 Dusza
  3. Erica H Lee
    135 Lee
  4. Anthony Rossi
    233 Rossi