Dermatologic surgery adverse events database launched

A registry of cutaneous procedure adverse events has been launched by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association and the department of dermatology at Northwestern University, according to a press release.

The Cutaneous Procedures Adverse Events Reporting (CAPER) system is designed to monitor and identify gaps in practice and education, as well as identify risk factors for adverse events.

“Having access to information to not only potentially improve patient safety, but also assess and affirm the presumed high level of safety of dermatologic surgery, is very exciting,” Murad Alam, MD, MBA, vice chair of the Northwestern University department of dermatology and past ASDSA president, said in the release.

CAPER, which is overseen by a group of board-certified dermatologists, clinicians and researchers, will allow ASDSA members to report adverse events at www.caper.net.

“Establishing a data repository for dermatologic surgery, both cosmetic and skin cancer related, will be crucial in advancing our field and helping our patients,” ASDSA President Mathew Avram, MD, JD, said in the release.