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Mohs' micrographic surgery
1Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Abstract:
Mohs' micrographic surgery is used for the treatment of contiguously spreading cancer of the skin. This technique involves removal of tissue in thin layers and precise histographic mapping of all margins of the specimen to determine whether tumor remains. Cure rates are extremely high for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, especially those known to be at high risk for recurrence. Mohs' micrographic surgery is also tissue sparing because tumor can be precisely identified and removed, and the maximal amount of normal skin can be retained for wound repair. As an outpatient procedure done with the use of local anesthesia, this procedure is both highly effective and safe, and the resultant wounds can be reconstructed in a cosmetically acceptable fashion.
Insights
Mohs micrographic surgery offers high cure rates for skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This precise, tissue-sparing technique maximizes normal skin retention for effective wound repair.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Surgical Oncology
- Oncology
Background:
- Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique for treating contiguous skin cancers.
- It involves precise, layer-by-layer tissue removal and margin mapping.
Observation:
- The technique meticulously maps all specimen margins to detect residual tumor.
- This method is particularly effective for high-risk basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.
Findings:
- Mohs surgery achieves extremely high cure rates for common skin cancers.
- It is highly tissue-sparing, preserving maximal normal skin for reconstruction.
Implications:
- The outpatient procedure is safe and effective under local anesthesia.
- Resultant wounds can be cosmetically reconstructed, offering excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes.