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Muffin Technique Micrographic Surgery for Non-melanoma Skin Cancer.
Philip Surmanowicz1, Arunima Sivanand1, Amy X Du1
1Division of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
Frontiers in Medicine
|February 8, 2021
Summary
Muffin technique micrographic surgery (MTMS) offers a cost-effective alternative to Mohs surgery for skin cancer, achieving high clear margin rates and no recurrences in a recent study. This method provides full margin control and tumor mapping.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Surgical Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is the standard for high-risk facial non-melanoma skin cancer but faces access limitations due to cost.
- The muffin technique micrographic surgery (MTMS) presents a viable alternative, evaluating the entire excised margin post-operatively.
- This study details the implementation and initial outcomes of MTMS in an academic setting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the muffin technique micrographic surgery (MTMS).
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of MTMS in a real-world clinical academic setting.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing MTMS for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
- Study period: June 2016 to July 2019 at the University of Alberta Dermatology Center.
- Inclusion criteria: Patients with BCC and SCC treated with MTMS.
Main Results:
- 69 patients included (64 BCCs, 5 SCCs).
- 68.1% achieved clear margins after the first excision, with 100% clear margins after re-excision.
- Median follow-up of 40 months showed no tumor recurrences and no major adverse events.
Conclusions:
- MTMS provides full margin control and residual tumor mapping, making it a superior alternative to simple excision.
- The technique demonstrates high efficacy and safety for skin cancer treatment.
- MTMS enhances patient access to effective micrographic surgery by addressing cost barriers.
