Skin and Soft Tissue Lesions
Dr Rob is trained in the management of skin and soft tissue lesions, as well as the care of skin grafts and scars.
PILOMATRIXOMA
This is a common soft tissue lesions in children that presents as a slow growing ‘pebble’ under the skin. It is commonest in older children, and most often over the trunk and upper limbs. They are usually solitary, but may be multiple, and after excision are unlikely to grow back.
CAPILLARY LOBULAR HAEMANGIOMA
This may also be called a pyogenic granuloma. This lesion is common after minor trauma, and starts as a little red spot that rapidly grows in to a pink, slimy mushroom like lesion that may bleed on minor contact. When it is small, or on a narrow stalk, it may be possible to burn it off or treat with steroid cream. For broad based lesions, they may still need to be excised with a knife and by taking a small disc of skin. There is a higher than usual risk of the wound popping open after excision because of the intense inflammatory reaction that is driving the lesions growth, and this will cause delayed healing and a more noticeable scar. In this situation, Dr Rob will also continue to manage your childs recovery and scar therapy to foster an optimal cosmetic outcome.
PIGMENTED NAEVUS
Many pigmented naevi are low risk compound naevi (moles) and do not warrant excision. It is fortunately rare for children to develop melanoma or other skin cancers, but if there is sudden change in appearance, irritation, bleeding or itching then excision may be recommended.
MUCOCELE
Mucocoeles are common in childhood, and appear as a round, shiny lump on the inside of the lips and cheeks. They are proposed to happen after trauma to the lining of the mouth, and mucous accumulates inside the cyst. Many of them are small, don’t cause pain or irritation, and will resolve on their own. If they are large or bothering your child, they can be removed under a general anaesthetic, and a few dissolving sutures used to close the hole, which heals rapidly.
VASCULAR MALFORMATIONS
This is a huge group of related disorders. The commonest is the classic infantile haemangioma, or “strawberry naevus.” Dr Rob is trained in the investigation, identification and management of vascular malformations, and if they are large, and/or complex then Dr Rob will arrange to have your child's case looked after through a Multi Disciplinary Team environment.
DR ROB McCUSKER
Gold Coast Children’s Surgeon
Dr Rob is dedicated to the highest quality of care and technical excellence for his patients.