Surgical smoke in dermatologic surgery.

BACKGROUND: Potential dangers associated with smoke generated during electrosurgery have been described. However, the use of smoke management in dermatology is unknown. There is no objective data showing the amount or the composition of the smoke generated in dermatologic surgeries. OBJECTIVE: To assess the use of smoke management in dermatologic surgery and provide data on the amount and chemical composition of surgical smoke. METHODS: A total of 997 surveys were sent to dermatologic surgeons across the United States to assess the use of smoke management. Amounts and concentrations of particulates and chemical composition were measured during electrosurgery using a particulate meter and the Environmental Protection Agency-standardized gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. RESULTS: Thirty-two percent of the surgeons responded to the survey, and 77% of the respondents indicated no use of smoke management at all. Only approximately 10% of surgeons reported consistent use of smoke management. Active electrosurgery produced significant amounts of particulates. In addition, surgical smoke contained high concentrations of known carcinogens, such as benzene, butadiene, and acetonitrile. CONCLUSION: Surgical smoke contains toxic compounds and particulates. Most dermatologic surgeons do not use smoke management within their practices. Raising the awareness of the potential risks can help increase the use of smoke management.

Review of the use of a semisynthetic bilaminar skin substitute in dermatology and a case series report of its utility in Mohs surgery.

Biobrane is a biosynthetic wound dressing that has been widely used in burn treatment and as a skin graft donor site dressing. Our aim for this review was to establish whether Biobrane serves as a useful tool for the field of Dermatology and Dermatologic surgery. It has been frequently used in the field of Dermatology for the management of burns, erosive skin diseases, laser procedures, and surgical procedures. From the past experiences evident in the literature and in our cases series, it has been shown to improve patient's quality of life by reducing pain, healing time, and length of hospital stay. Our case series further demonstrate its use in temporary closures, delayed reconstructions, and secondary intention healing in Mohs surgery. Reports of successful use of Biobrane in the literature and in our case series support the fact that it is an effective therapeutic option to facilitate the healing process in the field of Dermatology and Dermatologic surgery.