36725458-2144 - A national survey of skin cancer surgery activity by Maxillofacial Surgeons in the UK
Published Date: 01st July 2025
Publication Authors: Kerai. A
Background
The incidence of skin cancer is increasing in the UK. Skin cancer excision and reconstruction in the UK has historically been undertaken primarily by plastic surgeons. As Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) working has developed, maxillofacial departments are increasingly undertaking skin cancer surgery. This study aimed to determine the current skin cancer activity of maxillofacial surgeons in the UK.
Method
A survey was designed and distributed online using the SurveyMonkey platform. This was sent to surgeons registered with the skin subspecialty interest group of the British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (BAOMS).
Results
51 responses were received. 76% of these were consultants, with the remainder being senior trainees, fellows or specialty doctors. Most undertook between 100 and 200 skin cancer operations per year (25%), with a wide range (<10 to >500). Two thirds of respondents also performed skin cancer surgery on non-head and neck sites. Over 80% treated melanoma, offering biopsy and wide local excision, however only 14% performed sentinel node biopsy themselves. Half reported availability of Mohs surgery within their own unit, but only two respondents were trained to do this themselves. 84% were core members of their local skin MDT, 25% regional MDT and 35% specialist MDT.
Conclusions
Maxillofacial departments undertake a large volume of skin cancer surgery in the UK as part of an MDT, working with plastic surgeons, dermatologists, oncologists and pathologists. It is important that this workload is recognised, and resources are allocated appropriately in order that patients receive the best treatment.
Gruber, E; Kerai, A; Newlands, C. (2025). 36725458-2144 - A national survey of skin cancer surgery activity by Maxillofacial Surgeons in the UK. International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. 54(Supp 1), p.149. [Online]. Available at: https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijom.2025.04.410 [Accessed 17 July 2025]
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