ABSTRACT
The surgical treatment of skin disorders has assumed increasing importance in dermatology as a result of the increasing incidence of skin cancer, increased awareness of treatment options for skin lesions and the development of specialized techniques, such as Dr F Mohs' micrographic surgery. This chapter provides an overview of dermatological surgery and emphasizes the most salient points. An accurate diagnosis is essential before planning surgery of the skin. Without a diagnosis it is impossible to know whether surgical treatment is either necessary or desirable. Dermatological surgeons must learn Mohs’ surgery at an accredited centre as soon as they can. They should also develop an excellent local anaesthetic technique. Become familiar with full-thickness skin grafts and local skin flaps. Curettage is a useful technique – but be aware that new disposable curettes are made with a blunt and a sharp edge.
