Assessing exposure to dermoscopy in plastic surgery training programs.

Summary Background Dermoscopy is a non-invasive tool that improves the diagnostic accuracy of melanoma and other cutaneous malignancies, yet it is not widely used by plastic surgeons, who commonly manage skin lesions. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore current practice patterns and knowledge of dermoscopy among plastic surgeons and post-graduate plastic surgery trainees. Additionally, interest in establishing a formal dermoscopy curriculum as part of plastic surgery residency training was evaluated. Methods An online electronic questionnaire was developed and distributed via email to practicing plastic surgeons and plastic surgery trainees at two Canadian universities. Results Of the 59 potential participants, 27 (46%) responded. While the majority of participants were familiar with dermoscopy (n=26; 96%), only one respondent reported using dermoscopy in clinical practice. However, all respondents reported exposure to melanoma clinically (n=26; one participant did not provide a response). A lack of training, along with lack of access to dermatoscopes were the most frequently cited reasons for not using dermoscopy. Knowledge scores for concerning dermoscopic features were also low; with a noted propensity towards diagnostic or excisional biopsy, which could raise the benign to malignant ratio. Overall, 89% (n=24) of respondents expressed interest in dermoscopy training in plastic surgery post-graduate training. Conclusions Few responding plastic surgeons or plastic surgery residents currently use dermoscopy in training or practice but are interested in formal dermoscopy training in residency.