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Skin cancer, like other forms of cancer, may require surgery to remove the cancerous growth. For cancers that have not spread, surgery may be the only type of treatment needed. Skin cancers that are more aggressive, such as melanoma, often need more extensive surgeries. If your doctor found that nearby lymph nodes are inflamed, and the cancer cells are suspected to have spread, your doctor usually will need to remove the lymph nodes.
Different surgical techniques can be used to treat skin cancer, depending on the type of skin cancer, where it is on the body, how large the cancer is, and how deep the cancer is. The following are the types of skin cancer surgery.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is performed to treat the most common skin cancers, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma, as well as some kinds of melanoma and other unusual skin cancers. This surgery is designed to remove as much of the skin cancer as possible while ensuring the surrounding healthy tissue is preserved. During Mohs surgery, your surgeon removes the cancerous cells from the skin layer by layer, until only cancer-free tissue remains. It is usually used in highly visible areas, such as the face, head, or neck, in order to limit scarring. It can also be used to treat recurrent skin cancers. Mohs surgery is performed under local anesthetic, meaning only the affected area is numbed but you will remain awake during the surgery.
Excisional surgery
Excisional surgery is appropriate for any type of skin cancer. The surgeon performs an excision with a sharp razor or scalpel, shaving or cutting a growth off the skin. There are several types of excision that may be performed:
A simple excision uses a scalpel to remove the skin growth, as well as a small part of the surrounding tissue.
A wide excision involves shaving or peeling a growth off the surface of the skin using a sharp razor-like tool
Wide excision is usually used for Merkel cell carcinomas and melanoma. This type of excisional surgery removes the skin tumor as well as a wider surrounding healthy tissue. It may also extend more deeply into the skin.
Excisional surgery is done under local anesthetic.
Curettage and electrodessication
This procedure involves removing a skin lesion with a curette, which is a long, thin surgical tool with a tiny circular blade on its end for scraping. Once the lesion is scraped, the affected area is then treated through electrodesiccation, which uses an electric needle designed to reduce bleeding and kill any cancer cells that remain on the skin. The process may be carried out several times and is performed under local anesthesia.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery, also called cryotherapy, is a technique to freeze and destroy cancer cells using liquid nitrogen. The technique may be repeated several times and is only used for pre-cancerous lesions and small skin cancers.
Laser surgery
During laser surgery, an intense beam of light is used to destroy cancer cells. This type of surgery is only used to treat very superficial skin cancers.
Lymph node biopsy and removal
A lymph node biopsy is often performed on patients with melanoma. During this procedure, the doctor will remove one or more sentinel lymph nodes. If no sign of cancer is found in the lymph node, no additional lymph node surgery is required. However, if melanoma cells is found in one or more sentinel lymph nodes, it may be necessary to remove the remaining lymph nodes in the area.
Surgery for metastatic skin cancer
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, which are the most common types of skin cancers, normally do not metastasize. However, melanoma may travel to the bones, brain, lungs, and liver. When this happens, surgery may be needed to remove tumors from those locations. This surgery may be combined with other treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Reconstructive surgery
Skin cancer surgery may cause disfigurement or scarring, particularly when extensive surgery is required to remove cancer, or when the surgery is carried in highly visible areas, such as the hands, neck, face, or head.
Most skin cancer surgeries are performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can leave the hospital on the same day. For more extensive surgeries, you may need to stay for several days. It is recommended that you stay in Panama for at least 7 to 14 days for follow up checkups and initial recovery.
Recovery time of skin cancer surgery depends on the type of surgery you have. In general, it is wise to take it easy for several days. Your doctor will give you a detailed recovery timeline, which includes when you can go back to work and resume your normal activities.
You will be given instructions following your surgery. It is important that you follow the instruction carefully. Try to avoid movements that may stress your wound and sutures, and make sure to keep the incision sites clean and well protected from potential injury. In most cases, you will have to attend a follow-up checkup to ensure cancer has not come back. However, you can choose to have this follow-up checkup with your local doctor.
Skin cancer surgery is generally safe and effective. Mohs surgery has one of the highest cure rates at up to 99%. Still, the surgery carries some potential side effects, including pain, swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, scarring, disfigurement, fatigue, and lymphedema.
The alternative to surgery depends on the size, location, depth, and type of skin cancer. Small skin cancers limited to the surface of your skin may not need any treatment besides an initial skin biopsy. Other types of treatments include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and biological therapy. However, in some cases, these treatments are done in conjunction with surgery.
Before skin cancer surgery, you may have a cancerous growth in your skin that causes uncomfortable and painful symptoms. In some cases, growth can be dangerous and life-threatening. After skin cancer surgery, cancer should be removed and you may be cured of cancer, allowing you to live your normal life again and improving your quality of life.
Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers
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Situated as a transcontinental entity, the Republic of Panama straddles the geographic crossroads of Central and South America. The inception of the Panama Canal in 1914 propelled this country into an integral position as a nexus between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Those who are drawn to visit this radiant country find themselves ensnared in a mesmerizing display of cerulean seas, diverse fauna, deserted islands, bountiful coffee farms, and awe-inspiring rainforests.
The Republic of Panama unites the corners of the world, bridging the two American continents as a vibrant transcontinental nation. The construction of the Panama Canal in 1914 marked a turning point, positioning the nation as a crucial crossroad - connecting the vast expanse of Caribbean waters with the Pacific. The travelers who venture into this country discover an array of rewards awaiting them. The breathtaking beauty of sparkling blue waters, a plethora of enthralling wildlife, desolate islands that evoke an air of tranquility, sprawling coffee plantations, and the awe-striking charm of lush rainforests contribute to the diverse and enticing experiences that Panama has to offer.
Over the past several years, the Republic of Panama is steadily gaining renown as a preferred medical tourism hotspot for myriad individuals across Europe and the United States. The medical professionals operating within the country receive their robust education and accreditation from the United States, thus ensuring their expertise extends to the vanguard of their respective fields. The blend of these proficient doctors and superb medical infrastructure, combined with reasonable pricing on a wide range of medical practices, contributes to Panama's appeal for healthcare needs. Whether one seeks remedial treatments or desires elective cosmetic surgery, there are an ample array of high-quality, cost-effective services available in this picturesque country.
In the recent panorama, Panama has noticed a swift surge in its recognition as a prime choice for medical tourism, attracting numerous Europeans and Americans to its shores. Professionally trained and certified in the United States, the doctors in Panama stand at the forefront of their respective medical fields. Contributing to its desirability as a medical tourism hub is the high-quality care provided by these adept medical practitioners, alongside state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. The affordability of medical procedures in Panama further heightens its appeal. From treatments aimed at correcting medical conditions to elective cosmetic surgeries, the striking beauty of Panama, coupled with its comprehensive and affordable healthcare solutions, makes it an ideal medical destination for individuals worldwide.
Known as the most cosmopolitan capital within the region of Central America, Panama City opens the door to a multitude of tropical getaways while donning the hat of a bustling metropolis. Serving as a focal point for trade and immigration within the region, Panama City represents a vibrant blend of diverse cultures; a veritable melting pot where different backgrounds meet and meld.
Being the epitome of cosmopolitan magnificence in Central America, Panama City beams as the gateway to a spectrum of tropical retreats and simultaneously thrives as a bustling urban settlement. It stands as a central hotspot for regional trade and immigration practices, thereby birthing a profusion of cultures. This city, with its diverse cultural influences, serves as a sophisticated melting pot, crafting a harmonious blend of a myriad of cultures.
Some of the more popular tourist attractions are Teatro Nacional, Panamá Viejo, Donde José, and Parque Natural Metropolitano. Although the capital attracts thousands of tourists each year, the most popular destination is Bocas del Toro. Combining a laid-back Caribbean vibe with the incredible natural setting of forests, jungles, and mangrove, this seaside town is where adventure and relaxation meet. Surfing and snorkeling are extremely popular in this town. However, the real talking point is relaxing in a secluded cove which can only be reached by water taxis.
The primary international portal into Panama is the Tocumen International Airport, serving as a critical regional hub for flights moving in and out of The Caribbean, as well as North, South, and Central America. Additionally, it accommodates flights from select cities across Asia and Europe. For intra-country travel, domestic flights are the quickest mode of transport; however, the speed comes with a higher price tag.
Road travel presents a more economical alternative, with buses being the most widely used and cost-effective means of transportation across the country. Within the confines of major cities, taxis are readily available for residents and tourists alike.
Tocumen International Airport is the premier international aerial gateway into Panama. This airport stands as a regional transport hub, connecting Panama with destinations across the Caribbean, North, South, and Central America — even heralding flights from certain European and Asian cities. To journey within Panama, domestic flights offer the quickest, albeit pricier, option. For those prioritizing affordability over speed, buses provide a popular and budget-friendly choice.
Further adding to the transportation options in Panama is the accessibility of taxi services. For those traversing within the major urban areas of the country, taxi services make intra-city travel a breeze. These easily available taxis contribute significantly to the efficiency of short distance commutes.
Additionally, getting around within the key city areas in this country is seamless thanks to the taxi services. For intra-city commutes in Panama's principal urban centers, taxis stand as a thoroughly accessible choice for transportation, simplifying movement within the cityscape.
Panama allows citizens of most countries, including all EU citizens and Americans, to visit the country without a visa for 180 days. Some other countries, such as China and the Philippines, need a visa to visit the country. All visitors need to hold a passport valid for at least 6 months.
Citizens of over 100 countries, including all EU nations and the United States, can visit Panama without a visa for up to 180 days.
Nationals of countries not included in the visa-exemption list need to apply for a visa before traveling to Panama.
All visitors must have a valid passport with at least six months remaining validity from the date of entry.
Proof of onward travel may be requested upon arrival.
Situated comfortably within the tropics, Panama's climate is characterized by distinctive wet and dry seasonal variations. Spanning from mid-March through to December, the wet season tends to bring rainfall every alternate day. However, the showers are typically brief and they mainly occur during afternoon hours, but this season also tends to be quite humid. On the other hand, the dry season extends from December until March. Throughout this time frame, the likelihood of witnessing rainfall dramatically decreases, resulting in overall drier conditions.
Given its tropical location, Panama experiences two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry. Commencing in mid-March and continuing until December, the wet season brings periodic rainfall, which typically occurs in short, intense bursts during the afternoon. However, tourists should remember that humidity levels can peak during this time. Conversely, the dry season, which stretches from December through March, ushers in a period of minimal rainfall, offering a drier climate.