View 2019 Abstracts

Intraoperative margin control (IOMC) modalities such as fast frozen section (FFS), fast paraffin (FP) and Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) are increasingly being used for tumours in the periocular region. Such modalities are proven to have a lower rate of recurrence than standard techniques. The purpose of this survey was to assess attitudes and access to these three forms of IOMC amongst BOPSS members.

An online survey was disseminated via e-mail correspondence to full members of BOPSS. The survey was hosted using Qualtrics software via the University of Sussex. Participants were asked to respond to all questions though were able to skip questions if required. Questions centred around attitudes and access to IOMC.

Overall response rate was 64/165 full BOPSS members (38.8% responsively rate). Fourteen out of 64 respondents (21.8%) had access to MMS in their own institution, though 23/64 (35.9%) had access to MMS in a neighbouring trust. Seven respondents (10.9%) reported no access to MMS. FFS was available to 29 respondents (45.3%) in their own institution, and FP was available to 37 respondents (57.8%) in their own institution. Fifty eight members (90.6%) would consider IOMC for ill defined BCC, and 27 respondents (42.2%) for nodular BCC. Fifty two respondents (81.3%) would consider IOMC for SCC of the eyelid.

This study highlights that despite widespread agreement that IOMC is important for some periocular tumours, there is wide variation in availability and utilisation of IOMC amongst oculoplastic surgeons within the British Isles . Greater consistency of IOMC services in the UK may help provide a wider range of options for high risk tumours and improve patient outcomes.