Background: Removal of compound nevi can be accomplished by total elliptical excision, which is probably the most common method, or shave excision with electrodessication and curettage, which is simpler. Objective: To compare the cosmetic outcome of elliptical excision versus shave excision in the surgical removal of compound nevi of the face. Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial in adult patients with facial compound nevi. Forty subject were randomized to either shave excision or elliptical excision. Subjects were examined at 3-months post-operation. Photographs taken at that time were shown to three blinded, independent dermatologists. Cosmetic outcome was rated using the cosmetic visual analogue scale (cVAS).Results: cVAS results of the three investigators revealed no significant difference between the two treatment groups of among investigators (p=0.48, Kruskal-Wallis test.) Conclusion: There are no significant differences in the cosmetic outcome of shave versus elliptical excision of compound nevi.
Human ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Nevi And Melanomas ; Nevus