The value of preoperative biopsy-site photography for identifying cutaneous lesions.

Background: Dermatologic surgeons rely on several methods to identify surgical sites (patients and their spouses, diagrams of surgical sites, gauze dermabrasion, biopsy-site scars, and referring physician identification), but it is not uncommon for several weeks to pass before surgery, allowing biopsy sites to become inconspicuous with healing. Practicing in a culture in which medical lawsuits continue to soar, it is prudent for dermatologists and dermatologic surgeons to locate surgical sites precisely using the most accurate and irrefutable means to protect themselves against costly lawsuits.

Objectives: To determine the value of preoperative biopsy-site photography in accurately identifying surgical sites before Mohs micrographic surgery.

Versatile sterile field for nail surgery using a sterile glove.

Nail surgery is frequently done by dermatologists. Post-operative complications of nail surgery include infection, bleeding, pain, pyogenic granuloma, and nail dystrophy. Infectious complications after nail surgery can be prevented with proper aseptic techniques.