266 Malignant Melanoma: Highlighting Delays in the Pathway from Biopsy to WLE (Wide Local Excision) + SLNB (Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy)

Abstract Aim To highlight delays in the malignant melanoma (MM) pathway for patients undergoing a Wide Local Excision (WLE) and Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB). Aiming to evaluate if Trust standards are met, provide 31-day clock from time of clinic discussion WLE SLNB, date operation. In particular, comparing pre- (2019) post-COVID (2022) waiting times. Method Retrospective data collection with MM diagnosis AJCC (American Joint Committee on Cancer) 1B-2C requiring who were operated between January-December 2019 January-October 2022. All operations performed at Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle. The following parameters collected: grade; SLNB site result; of: initial biopsy, biopsy result, skin cancer multidisciplinary meeting (MDT), discussion, Exclusion criteria: 1A 3, incomplete original (i.e. 2-week wait had not stopped), documentation date, extreme (3 >140 days, due acute illness initially declining operation). Results average operation was 35 days 2019, compared 53 2022 (p-value <0.05). 56% (n = 79) underwent their within target, 13% 14) patients, p<0.05. This statistically significant difference irrespective grade site. Conclusions Statistically decrease percentage target 2022, 2019. Delays affected by an increase number referrals limited capacity operating.