Pain and anxiety management practices in Mohs micrographic surgery: A UK national survey

This letter responds to the recent Australian survey by Harris and Lee (Australas J Dermatol, 2024, doi: 10.1111/ajd.14361) on the use of oral benzodiazepines for anxiety management in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). While commending the authors' efforts, we provide additional perspectives on current practices, recent evidence and safety considerations. We highlight the alignment with U.S. practices, discuss a recent randomized controlled trial supporting diazepam's efficacy and emphasize the importance of non‐pharmacological interventions. The letter also addresses the need for flumazenil availability and calls for standardized guidelines and further research to optimize patient care in MMS.

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A practical guide to reducing preoperative and intraoperative patient anxiety in dermatologic surgery

Yousif,

Alkhouri,

St. Claire

et al. 2023

Int J Dermatology

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BackgroundDermatologists perform a variety of procedures including excisions, biopsies, and other minor surgical procedures. Patients can experience anxiety in anticipation of their surgeries or may develop anxiety during the procedure. Since most dermatologic procedures occur with the patient awake and alert, the physician can offer comforting methods to alleviate some of that anxiety.AimsWe wanted to provide a review of available methods that dermatologists can use to reduce patient anxiety.Materials & MethodsIn this paper, we review the current literature on methods that can be used in dermatology offices to reduce overall patient anxiety levels.ResultsIn the preoperative stage, providers can offer educational content to explain the procedure to their patients. Whether it be through telephone calls, educational videos, or utilization of visual models, educating the patient regarding their procedure may reduce their anxiety. Intraoperatively, there are multiple methods that can be used such as music, guided imagery, coloring books, medications, hypnosis, and distraction techniques.Discussion & ConclusionThere is a variety of approaches that can be easily implemented in the office and can help in reducing the anxiety of the patients to allow for a pleasant patient experience and an overall satisfactory procedure outcome.

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Pain and anxiety management practices in Mohs micrographic surgery: A UK national survey

Cited by 4 publications

References 6 publications

The use of oral benzodiazepines for patient anxiety associated with Mohs micrographic surgery: An Australian survey

The use of oral benzodiazepines for patient anxiety associated with Mohs micrographic surgery: An Australian survey

Perspectives on oral benzodiazepine use for anxiety in Mohs micrographic surgery: A response to the Australian survey

A practical guide to reducing preoperative and intraoperative patient anxiety in dermatologic surgery

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