MOHS
Our team specializes in Mohs surgery for the treatment of skin cancer. Mohs surgery combines the surgical removal of the tumor with the immediate microscopic examination of the tumor and underlying diseased tissue. This process allows for complete identification and removal of the entire tumor until the cancer is completely gone. Mohs surgery is proven to provide the highest cure rate and the lowest chance of re-growth. It also minimizes the potential for post-surgery disfigurement.
Is it for you?
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is primarily used to treat basal and squamous cell carcinomas, but can be used to treat less common tumors including melanoma.
You are a candidate for Mohs Surgery when:
- The cancer was treated previously and recurred
- Scar tissue exists in the area of the cancer
- The cancer is in an area where it is important to preserve healthy tissue for maximum functional and cosmetic result, such as eyelids, nose, ears, lips
- The cancer is large
- The edges of the cancer cannot be clearly defined
- The cancer grows rapidly or uncontrollably
Treatment
The Mohs process includes a specific sequence of surgery and pathological investigation. Mohs is designed to examine the removed tissue for evidence of extended cancer roots. Once the visible tumor is removed, our surgeons trace the paths of the tumor using a map of the surgical site and a microscope. We remove an additional thin layer of tissue from the tumor site, creating a "map" or drawing of the removed tissue to be used as a guide to the precise location of any remaining cancer cells and microscopically examine the removed tissue thoroughly to check for evidence of remaining cancer cells. If any of the sections contain cancer cells, we will return to the specific area of the tumor site as indicated by the map, remove another thin layer of tissue and examine it. This process continues layer-by-layer until the cancer is completely gone.
Recovery
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 functional capabilities and maximize aesthetics. Our surgeons perform the reconstructive procedure necessary to repair the wound. A small wound may be allowed to heal on its own, or the wound may be closed with stitches, a skin graft or a flap. If a tumor is larger than initially anticipated, another surgical specialist with unique skills may complete the reconstruction. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the reconstruction. In general, avoiding the sun and caring for the wound to minimize scarring is required.
