Surgical management of non melanoma skin cancer of the head and neck

Abstract

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most common malignancy in the world and is reaching epidemic proportions. The most common types of NMSC include basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The head and neck is the most common site for NMSC, and surgery remains the mainstay of treatment. We review the etiology, risk factors, pathogenesis as well as the preoperative, operative, and postoperative considerations in the management of NMSC. Multidisciplinary evaluation and attention to each of these phases is imperative for favorable oncologic and functional patient outcomes.