Melanoma Surgery
Surgery is the primary treatment for melanoma, a highly aggressive form of skin cancer. The main goal of melanoma surgery is to remove cancerous cells from the skin, thereby reducing the risk of cancer spreading or recurring. The surgical approaches may vary based on the characteristics of the melanoma and can include strategic lymph node biopsy, wide local excision, excisional biopsy, or lymphadenectomy. In cases of early-stage melanoma, surgery may be the sole treatment required for a cure. However, advanced stages may necessitate additional therapies such as immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or radiation. Typically, surgical oncologists or dermatological specialists perform melanoma surgeries. Effective management of melanoma relies on early detection, accurate staging, and comprehensive treatment planning, emphasizing the importance of regular skin examinations and prompt evaluation of any suspicious lesions.
About Melanoma Surgery
Indications: Melanoma surgery involves the surgical removal of cancerous cells from the outer layer of the skin. This procedure is necessary when problematic moles or lesions are identified during routine skin exams, screening tests, such as skin biopsies, or dermatological evaluations.
Underlying Causes: Melanoma arises from genetic predispositions and exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds. Risk factors include fair skin, a history of sunburns, numerous moles, a family history of melanoma, and a compromised immune system.
Treatment Approach: The primary treatment for melanoma is the surgical excision of the malignant lesion. Surgical methods can vary based on the melanoma’s characteristics and may include lymphadenectomy (lymph node dissection), wide local excision, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and excisional biopsy, especially if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Early detection and prompt treatment are critical for optimal outcomes.
Procedure of Melanoma Surgery
Preoperative Assessment: The patient undergoes a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history review, physical examination, and potentially imaging studies to assess the size, depth, and location of the melanoma.
Anesthesia Administration: To ensure the patient’s comfort and safety, anesthesia is administered. Depending on the extent of the surgery, this may be local, regional, or general anesthesia.
Incision: The surgeon makes a precise incision around the melanoma, ensuring an adequate margin of healthy tissue surrounding the tumor. The size and location of the incision depend on the melanoma’s characteristics and location.
Tumor Removal: The surgeon carefully excises the melanoma along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal and minimize the risk of recurrence. The depth of excision is determined by the thickness of the melanoma, as assessed during the preoperative evaluation.
Wound Closure: After the melanoma is excised, the surgical site is closed using sutures, surgical staples, or adhesive strips. Care is taken to align the wound properly and minimize tension on the skin to promote optimal healing.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (if indicated): If necessary, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed during the melanoma surgery to check for cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes. This procedure involves identifying and removing the lymph node(s) most likely to contain cancer cells for further examination.
Postoperative Care: After surgery, the patient is monitored in a recovery area until fully awake and stable. The healthcare team provides postoperative instructions, including guidelines for wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing progress and check for any signs of recurrence or complications.