MELANOMA MARGINS TRIAL-II: A PHASE III, MULTI-CENTRE RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL INVESTIGATING 1CM VS 2CM WIDE SURGICAL EXCISION MARGINS FOR AJCC STAGE II PRIMARY CUTANEOUS MELANOMA (MELMART-II)

Abstract

Primary melanomas (PM) are routinely excised with a wide margin to prevent recurrence. For patients with higher risk PM, there is debate as to the extent of the excision margin. We propose a 1cm margin will achieve equivalent survival outcomes to the recommended 2cm margin for patients with higher risk PM, while improving quality of life and reducing costs to the community. This trial will benefit patients worldwide, influencing care, clinical practice and future treatment guidelines.