Postoperative Preferences in Cutaneous Surgery: A Patient-Centered Investigation From an Academic Dermatologic Surgery Practice

Perioperative Anxiety Associated With Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Survey-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS)-associated anxiety is an important issue that remains poorly discussed. Identifying risk factors for MMS-associated anxiety will better equip physicians to manage patients' preoperative anxiety and result in improved patient satisfaction and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims in identification of risk factors that may play a role in MMS-associated anxiety among patients with nonmelanoma skin cancer.

METHODS

A cross-sectional case series was conducted among MMS patients collect information on patient demographics and surgical locations and to measure perioperative anxiety and quality of life (QoL). In addition, adjusted linear and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify potential risk factors that predict MMS-associated anxiety.

RESULTS

Significant increases in perioperative anxiety were associated with the eyelid area compared with the noneyelid facial area and nonfacial area ( p ≤ .05). Patients with graduate degrees exhibited less anxiety compared with ones who received less education ( p ≤ .05). Higher perioperative anxiety was associated with a greater impact on QoL ( p ≤ .05).

CONCLUSION

This study identified that surgical location and the patient's educational level are 2 critical predicting factors for perioperative anxiety. Furthermore, perioperative anxiety could negatively affect a patient's quality of life and warrants further investigation into effective management.

Patient-Centered Care in Dermatologic Surgery: Practical Strategies to Improve the Patient Experience and Visit Satisfaction

Patient-centered care in dermatologic surgery emphasizes addressing the preferences, values, and concerns of the surgical patient in an effort to improve the overall experience. Impediments affecting the delivery of Mohs micrographic surgical treatment of skin cancers are present throughout the perioperative period. Defining actionable strategies to improve outcomes can be challenging due to sparse literature and minimal high-quality scientific studies. This review focuses on the current evidence supporting practical recommendations in each surgical setting to improve the patient experience and increase visit satisfaction.