Skin sensation after the removal of basal cell carcinoma from the eyelids and facial skin
Author: Chen Shtayer
Base Hospital / Institution: Meir Medical Center
ePoster presentation
Abstract ID: 25-540
Purpose
To examine skin sensation following removal and reconstruction of lesion suspicious for BCC.
Methods
In this prospective cohort study, 16 patients underwent excision of lesions suspicious for basal cell carcinoma, followed by reconstruction using either primary closure or flaps and grafts. Skin sensation was assessed preoperatively and at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively using a Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometer. Associations were examined between sensory recovery and variables including patient age, gender, lesion size, lesion location, tumor pathology, and preoperative sensation levels.
Results
The Flap/Graft group demonstrated a gradual and stable improvement in sensation over six months, whereas the Primary Closure group exhibited a rapid initial recovery peaking at 1 month, followed by a decline and stabilization by 6 months. No significant differences in long-term sensory outcomes were observed between the two groups at 3 and 6 months (p > 0.05). Larger lesion size was associated with poorer recovery only in the primary closure group and pre-operative tactile sensation was positively associated with post-operative sensory recovery. Age positively correlated with better long-term sensory outcomes (p < 0.01). Gender differences were significant at 1 month (p < 0.01). Lesions on the eyelids exhibited lower sensory recovery compared to non-eyelid facial areas and squamous cell carcinoma pathology were significantly associated with poorer sensory outcomes.
Conclusion
Both reconstructive techniques yielded favorable long-term sensory outcomes. However, primary closure resulted in faster early recovery. Sensory outcomes were more strongly influenced by lesion-specific characteristics, such as size, anatomical location, and tumor type—than by patient demographics. Preoperative assessment of skin sensation may support surgical planning and help predict postoperative outcomes.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Fidaa | Al Zhalka | Meir Medical Center |
| Gal | Harel | Meir Medical Center |
| Mor | Vered | Meir Medical Center |
| Arie | Nemet | Meir Medical Center |
