Mohs Surgery, developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederic Mohs at the University of Wisconsin, is a highly specialized technique used in the removal of skin cancers. This skin cancer surgery typically requires no hospitalization and can be performed on an outpatient basis in the doctors office. According to the American Society for Mohs Surgery, this technique is now used throughout the world and has the highest reported cure rate of any skin cancer treatment.
Mohs surgery is different from other skin cancer treatments in that the cancerous tissue is removed in a very methodical manner and is immediately examined microscopically by the physician right there in the treatment room. This permits the physician to readily identify and remove all extensions and "roots" of the cancer without having to send tissue specimens to a lab and then wait for results. With Mohs surgery, the physician is able to specifically remove the cancerous tissue while saving any normal tissue.
Mohs surgery is especially important in the treatment of skin cancers that have already recurred after previous treatment, or, have a high risk of recurring. While this particular cancer surgery is not necessarily appropriate for all types of skin cancers, it is especially useful when it is necessary to save as much healthy tissue as possible for functional or cosmetic purposes. Skin cancers located in such areas as the ears, nose, lips, hairline, eyelids, genitals, feet, and hands benefit the most from Mohs surgery.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
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