What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery?
Mohs Surgery was developed by Frederic E. Mohs, MD in the 1930’s. This procedure has continued to be perfected by physicians for more than half a century.
Mohs Surgery is a state of the art treatment for many types of skin cancers where the physician takes the role of surgeon, pathologist, and reconstructive surgeon.
Mohs surgery involves surgically removing skin cancers layer by layer. The physician then examines the tissue under a microscope and continues this process until only cancer free tissue remains. This technique is the most exact and precise method of tumor removal. It lessens the chance of cancer regrowth, leaves the surrounding healthy tissue unharmed and intact, and also allows for the least amount of scarring possible.
Mohs surgery is usually an outpatient procedure performed in a physician’s office. Typically the surgery can be completed the same day, depending on the extent of the tumor and the amount or reconstruction necessary. Local anesthesia is administered around the area of the tumor so the patient is awake during the entire procedure.
Reconstruction
The best method of managing the wound resulting from surgery is determined after the cancer is completely removed. When the final defect is known, management is individualized to achieve the best results and to preserve function and maximize aesthetics. The Mohs surgeon is also trained in reconstructive procedures and most often will perform the reconstructive procedure necessary to repair the wound.