Removal of an Epidermal Cyst on the Lower Back

Popaholics, I'd fast forward to the 2:43 mark. For anyone trying to learn the procedure I would make note of the punctum just above my initial incision. Typically I would do an elliptical excision to ensure that this was fully removed. If this is small, however, so long as I remove the capsule from underneath, this will heal shut and the cyst won't recur. Why would I not simply do an elliptical excision? There are some advantages to a basic linear incision. First, I likely won't need dermal sutures, which certainly isn't a major issue but does simplify the procedure and in general I find simpler is better. You do sacrifice some strength across the suture line so I would only do this when you aren't worried about additional tension across the incision. Second, it does diminish the formation of 'dog ears' when you are suturing. Again, this isn't a major issue but is something to consider. Overall, this went well and the patient had no complications and healed nicely.