Abstract
An artificial dermis can be temporarily applied after excision of skin cancer. The most favorable indications for this method are as follows : 1) tumors with unclear margins ; 2) tumors, in which the depth or invasion level cannot be determined with intraoperative histopathological diagnosis ; 3) tumors for which the degree of malignancy is difficult to determine. In addition, “4) deep defects after removal of tumors” can also be an indication for an artificial dermis. The advantage of this method is that reconstruction can be implemented after a definitive diagnosis is made in cases when the degree of malignancy cannot be definitely determined with biopsy, or when the width of excision margin cannot be determined before surgery. Therefore, even when there is a residual tumor after excision or the safety margin is not sufficient, the skin graft or flap will not be wasted at the time of additional excision. In addition, this method can provide sufficient time for consulting with patients and their families on the reconstruction method after a definitive pathological diagnosis has been made, and it is also beneficial for obtaining informed consent. On the other hand, the disadvantage is that two surgeries are required, and this leads to a prolonged treatment period.[Skin Cancer (Japan) 2009 ; 24 : 392-396]
