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Description

Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer with a rising global incidence. Current National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommend surgical excision margins of 1-2cm for T2 melanomas (1-2 mm thickness) to balance local recurrence with quality of life. However, controversy persists regarding the optimal margin width within this range. While narrower margin may reduce surgical morbidity, cosmetic deformities, and healthcare costs, questions regarding their ability to maintain equivalent recurrence and survival outcomes remain unanswered. This study aims to evaluate recurrence rates, overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in a consecutive series of patients with T2 melanomas treated with 1cm versus 2cm surgical margins.

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with T2 melanoma who underwent either 1cm or 2cm surgical excision margins at a single institution between 01/01/2014 to 01/01/2024. The primary outcome of interest was recurrence rate (local, nodal, or distant), with secondary outcome including OS, and DFS. Statistical comparisons were performed using unpaired t-tests or Mann-Whitney tests for quantitative variables, and Chi-square or Fisher's Exact tests for nominal variables, with statistical significance set at P< 0.05. Data were managed using a de-identified REDCap database. Results are pending.

Publication Date

5-8-2026

Disciplines

Surgery

Comments

2026 Research Day Corewell Health West, Grand Rapids, MI, May 8, 2026. Abstract 1992

Analysis of Optimal Excisional Margin for T2 Melanomas

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