Mohs surgery comes to Ibiza improving the prognosis of patients and avoiding trips off the island.
Last year our dermatologists were already warning us: melanoma cases in Ibiza were up on the previous year. However, the Dermatology Unit of the Policlínica Group implemented the best diagnostic equipment (digital dermatoscopy) to detect skin cancer.
Eduardo Varas, dermatologist, explains: "Thanks to this equipment and the work carried out, we have detected this disease in its early stages and we have not had any deaths from this cause in 2021. So, although we see that cases have increased in our practice, it is also true that we have the best tools to detect and treat it.
"About 150 patients, he continues, "are already being followed up with digital dermoscopy, which allows us to monitor more closely those who are most at risk of developing skin cancer. To date, we have not had any cases of advanced melanoma in these patients under follow-up, so it is proving very useful".
Now, the Dermatology Unit has taken another important step, this time for the treatment of skin cancer. A few days ago, the first Mohs surgery in Ibiza was performed in one of the operating theatres of the Policlínica Ntra. Sra. del Rosario, which is a huge step forward for patients on the island, without having to travel.
"It is a technique," says Varas, "that allows micrographic control of the tumour edges intraoperatively, that is, it allows us to study microscopically whether the tumour is completely removed or not at the same time as the surgery. This guarantees that no tumour remains before proceeding to closure or reconstruction and also saves the maximum amount of healthy tissue around the lesion. In short, in this surgery we remove exactly what is necessary, neither more nor less, minimising the risk of the cancer being able to reproduce again".
Few centres in Spain carry out this type of intervention, which requires specific training for the surgeon, as well as close collaboration with other specialists such as maxillofacial surgeons, anatomopathologists, etc., which is sometimes difficult to organise.
"This technique is indicated in ill-defined, infiltrating and/or large tumours, where the risk of leaving malignant cells behind during surgery is greater," concludes the dermatologist.
Finally, and in view of the increase in the number of cases in Ibiza, we must remember that whenever a change in moles or other skin lesions is detected, a professional should be consulted. Early diagnosis is fundamental in skin cancer and time can make a great difference in the evolution and survival of the patient. People with fair skin, many moles or a family history of skin tumours should be checked every 1-2 years as they are at special risk.
