What is Mohs Surgery? Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, is a precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer. It involves removing thin layers of cancer-containing skin and examining each layer under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains
Why is Mohs Surgery Performed? Mohs surgery is primarily used to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common types of skin cancer. It is especially beneficial for cancers that:
- Have a high risk of recurrence.
- Are located in areas where preserving healthy tissue is crucial (e.g., around the eyes, nose, ears, mouth, hands, feet, and genitals).
- Have poorly defined borders.
- Are large or growing rapidly
Benefits of Mohs Surgery
- High Cure Rate: Mohs surgery has a high success rate because it ensures all cancer cells are removed while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain awake and avoid the risks associated with general anesthesia
- Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can go home the same day
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Preparation: The surgeon will numb the area with a local anesthetic.
- Removal of Cancerous Tissue: The visible tumor and a thin layer of surrounding tissue are removed.
- Microscopic Examination: The removed tissue is examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
- Additional Layers: If cancer cells are found, additional layers are removed and examined until no cancer cells remain
- Wound Treatment: Depending on the size and location of the wound, it may be left to heal naturally, stitched closed, or require a skin graft
Risks and Complications While Mohs surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Bleeding and infection.
- Pain or tenderness around the surgical site.
- Temporary or permanent numbness if small nerve endings are cut.
- Scarring
Preparation for Mohs Surgery
- Medication Review: Inform your surgeon about all medications and supplements you are taking, especially blood thinners.
- Clear Your Schedule: The procedure can take several hours, so plan accordingly.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear casual, comfortable clothes and bring something to pass the time, such as a book or magazine
Aftercare and Recovery
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions for wound care to minimize the risk of infection and promote healing.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and check for any signs of recurrence