Plastic surgical management of skin cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic

Summary We present our management of urgent skin cancer referrals during the COVID-19 pandemic through the utilisation of an independent plastic surgery treatment centre (PSTC). During this pandemic, we have seen a worrying decline in the number of new urgent skin cancer referrals being received by our service. However, there are still a number of patients requiring treatment for high risk skin cancers, where delays could potentially lead to significant complications. Our PSTC has allowed us to continue with definitive skin cancer excisions and reconstructions in patients suitable for local anaesthetic day case procedures, with reduced waiting times for the most urgent, protecting other patients and healthcare staff, and minimising the burden on hospital resources.