Rapid review and meta-analysis of psychological distress in adults undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery

This rapid review and meta-analysis focused on psychological adverse events in adults undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery. The study synthesized data from multiple sources to assess the prevalence of psychological distress associated with this procedure. The setting of the included studies was not reported. The sample size across the meta-analysis was 6455 patients.

The primary outcome measured was the pooled distress rating, which was found to be 25.26 out of 100. The 95% confidence interval for this estimate ranged from 11.44 to 61.11. The analysis revealed significant heterogeneity among the included studies, quantified by an I2 value of 100%.

Regarding secondary outcomes, the authors examined psychological risks identified in informed consent forms. None of the 20 consent forms reviewed listed psychological risks. The authors note that psychological adverse events such as anxiety and other psychological symptoms are common. They recommend that these risks be addressed within the informed consent process for Mohs micrographic surgery.

Limitations of this work include the significant heterogeneity observed across studies. The study phase was not reported. Funding sources and potential conflicts of interest were not reported. The authors caution against inferring causation from the observed associations. Practice relevance is limited to the need for better communication of psychological risks to patients.