Dermatologic Surgery Practice and Skin Cancer Treatment in Canada: Results of a National Survey

BACKGROUNDAlthough traditionally considered a medical subspecialty, dermatology has rapidly evolved over the past two decades to encompass a wide variety of cutaneous surgical procedures. OBJECTIVEThe study was carried out to evaluate the status of dermatologic surgery practice and skin cancer treatment in Canada. METHODSIn 2003, 550 practicing Canadian dermatologists were surveyed. RESULTSTwo hundred fifty-one dermatologists responded to the questionnaire, with the majority practicing in an urban part-time academic, part-time private setting. Statistics are presented on the types and demographics of dermatosurgical and cosmetic procedures performed, as well as on the specific dermatosurgical therapies used in the treatment of various cutaneous malignancies. CONCLUSIONSThe survey provides a current picture of dermatologic surgery practice and skin cancer treatment in Canada. The data suggest that Canadian dermatologists are further embracing surgical and cosmetic procedures.