Classic Dermatology Techniques For The Detection And Treatment Of Skin Cancer
What are these PROCEDURES?
The treatments described below are traditional methods used to detect and treat skin cancer. In addition to those listed we also provide the following services for the detection and treatment of skin cancer:
Mole & skin cancer assessment (skin check) carried out by a Dermatologist
A Rapid Access Clinic for non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer. Please call us on (03) 9826 4966 during business hours for more information.
Mohs micrographic surgery which is an advanced, highly effective technique for the removal of skin cancer with the highest reported cure rate.
Biopsy
A sample of skin tissue is removed, processed, and examined under a microscope for any abnormalities to determine the exact nature of the lesion.
curette
Primarily used for skin cancer treatment, although it does have other applications such as sunspot removal.
Excisional surgery
Cuts out skin cancers or moles/spots that may develop into skin cancer. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic. Depending on the type of sutures used and the area of the body, the patient may be required to return within a certain period of time to have their sutures removed.
liquid nitrogen
Allows relatively non-selective destruction of diseased skin tissue. Liquid nitrogen affects the top layer of skin more than the second layer. Given that scars form from injury to the second layer of skin, this approach can successfully treat surface spots without scarring, but often will alter pigment in the skin either temporarily or long term. It is most commonly applied at the Dermatology Institute of Victoria by a cryogen spray, but may in certain circumstances be applied differently.
Topical skin cancer treatment
A topical preparation is prescribed to the patient who then applies it to the area. The amount of time it is left on, and number of daily repetitions depends upon the specific medication and the type of cancer being treated.