What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery?
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a specialized surgical technique used to treat certain types of skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Named after Dr. Frederic Mohs, who developed the procedure, this method is renowned for its high success rate and ability to precisely remove cancerous tissue while sparing as much healthy skin as possible.
Unlike traditional excision methods, Mohs surgery involves the systematic removal and microscopic examination of skin layers. The process continues layer by layer until no cancer cells remain, ensuring complete tumor removal with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Benefits of Mohs Micrographic Surgery
One of the key advantages of Mohs surgery is its high cure rate, often cited as 98% or higher for certain skin cancers. This makes it the gold standard for treating cancers in cosmetically or functionally sensitive areas such as the nose, eyelids, ears, and lips.
Additional benefits include:
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Tissue Preservation: Only cancerous tissue is removed, which results in smaller scars and better cosmetic outcomes.
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Immediate Results: Each tissue layer is examined during the surgery, providing real-time confirmation of cancer removal.
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Reduced Recurrence: Mohs surgery offers the lowest recurrence rates, especially important for aggressive or recurring tumors.
Who is a Candidate for Mohs Surgery?
Mohs Micrographic Surgery is typically recommended for:
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Skin cancers with high risk of recurrence
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Tumors located in areas where preserving cosmetic appearance and function is critical
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Aggressive, large, or poorly defined tumors
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Recurrent skin cancers previously treated by other methods
Dermatologists or specialized Mohs surgeons assess each case individually to determine suitability.
Conclusion
Mohs Micrographic Surgery stands out as one of the most effective and conservative methods for skin cancer treatment. Its precision, high success rate, and minimal impact on healthy tissue make it especially valuable for treating cancers in sensitive areas. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, consult a qualified dermatologist or Mohs surgeon to see if this advanced treatment option is right for you.
