We recently treated a patient who had developed a skin lesion that turned out to be an SCC (squamous cell carcinoma). On visiting the clinic to express his concerns, the patient was immediately seen by one of our trained nurses.
The case was referred to our Consultant Plastic Surgeon Andrew Williams and a prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment quickly followed.
What is a squamous cell carcinoma?
An SCC is the second most common form of skin cancer in the UK and is a non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC.) Often caused by overexposure to the sun or other ultraviolet lights, SCC can vary in their appearance but they are commonly raised scaly red patches that crust or bleed.
On this occasion, the patient had a lesion and was worried about its appearance. On observing the SCC, Andrew Williams also had concerns and arranged for the patient to be treated at the next opportunity. At this point it is worth mentioning that the patient was aware that the treatment could have been carried out by the NHS but for convenience and speed he had the procedure done with us.
What did the treatment involve?
Mr Williams carried out the procedure in which the patient had surgery under local anaesthetic and the lesion was removed. Surgery went well and the tissue was excised and sent off for examination by our local pathologists.
Results came back quickly and Mr Williams saw the patient within a week to explain that the lesion was diagnosed as being SCC. Good news followed as histology results demonstrated that the growth had been removed with adequate clinical margin and the lesion completely excised.
We work as a team to evaluate the treatment.
It is important when dealing with squamous cell carcinoma that treatment is discussed at a multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting for skin cancer. All the Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists that work here are part of the Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS foundation skin cancer MDT. The patient’s case was discussed with Pathologists, Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons and Skin Cancer Nurse specialists and it was decided that the patient’s treatment was adequate.
Mr Williams saw the patient back at the clinic to discuss the findings and ultimate conclusions. The patient was very happy with the level of service he received and decided he would like the follow up to be conducted at Skin Surgery Clinic.
After a thorough examination the patient was given scar advice about how to get the best aesthetic results from his surgery. The patient continues to do very well and we are both delighted with the results of his treatment.
If you are worried about a skin growth do not hesitate to contact your GP or call one of our clinical experts on 01943 882011.
Before and After
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Removal – temple area
Patient Testimonial
By Surgical Excision
Treated – 03/09/2015
“Mr Williams made my treatment as stress-free as possible. He was very professional, approachable and knowledgable, putting me at ease from the start.
The procedure was conducted efficiently and with full explanation of what was going on. His ‘bedside manner’ was excellent and I felt that I was being treated by the best consultant in his field. (His jokes need a bit of work though!)
Follow-up was similarly excellent. Helena removed the stitches with no fuss and put me at ease; she was also very approachable, friendly and professional. Mr Williams gave me a full explanation of the histology, re-emphasising my full confidence in him.
The clinic is very welcoming, the staff are brilliant, and I would definitely recommend GSD.”
ND
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Removal
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