Comparing two methods for marking skin cancer excisions
Official title: Dermoscopy vs. Standard Marking Practices for the Completeness of Excision of Keratinocyte Skin Cancers: a Single-centre Randomised Controlled Trial
Run by Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust · NCT06627036 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using a handheld dermatoscope instead of traditional tools can help doctors remove skin cancer more completely during surgery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1376 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust Government |
| Drugs / interventions | chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Hull) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 21, 2024 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2031 |
| Registry record updated | January 24, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06627036 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older scheduled for excision of suspected keratinocyte skin cancer lesions.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with benign lesions or those whose lesions are inaccessible for dermoscopic assessment will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance the effectiveness of surgical removal of keratinocyte skin cancers by comparing two marking techniques: the traditional method using magnifying glasses and theatre lights versus a handheld dermatoscope. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two methods before undergoing surgery. The goal is to determine if the dermatoscope can improve the completeness of cancer removal, potentially reducing the need for additional treatments. The study addresses a significant issue, as current methods leave a portion of cancers unremoved in up to 11% of cases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to higher rates of complete cancer removal, reducing the need for further surgeries and hospital stays for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While similar studies have explored various techniques for skin cancer excision, the specific use of a dermatoscope in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 years or older who are scheduled for the excision of a suspected non-melanoma skin cancer lesion as part of a day-case surgery list at Hull University Teaching Hospitals are eligible for inclusion in the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Lesions that are inaccessible to dermoscopic assessment due to anatomical locations or conditions that prevent effective use of the dermatoscope. * Lesions that are determined to be benign or pigmented upon initial evaluation and therefore do not meet the criteria for suspected keratinocyte skin cancer. * Lesions scheduled for incisional, punch, or shave biopsy procedures, as these methods do not provide complete peripheral margin clearance. * Lesions that are histologically confirmed as benign following excision and examination by a pathologist. * Patients who decline to participate in the study. * Patients who are unable to provide informed consent due to a lack of mental capacity or other reasons.
Where it's running
-
Castle Hill Hospital
Hull, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Joshua Totty, MBBS MRCS PGCert MD(Res) FHEA — University of Hull
- Study coordinator: Christos Vosinakis
- Email: hyp-tr.hullplasticsresearch@nhs.net
- Phone: 01482622185
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.