Most
dermatologists have specialized training in the MOHS surgical procedure, an effective, proven method for getting rid of certain types of skin cancer. This skin cancer removal surgery treats skin cancer deep under the dermal layers so that the cancer does not recur after treatment. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, here’s what you need to know about the MOHS surgical procedure:
How MOHS Surgery Works
The MOHS surgical procedure is designed specifically to remove certain types of cancer by tracking and removing the roots of the cancer deep under the skin’s top layer. This layer of tissue is invisible to the naked eye, and the tracking process allows the dermatologist to see exactly how far and how deep the skin cancer has spread. The procedure involves removing the entire affected area using specialized tools, and leaves the surrounding tissues intact.
The dermatologist will conduct a thorough microscopic examination of the cancerous tissues to insure that all tissues have been removed successfully. Tissues that are removed are then carefully divided into pieces and color coded with special dyes to determine if there are any signs of skin cancer remaining.
If there are still affected tissues remaining, you may need to proceed with another treatment.
Benefits of MOHS Surgery
The MOHS surgical procedure is one of the leading skin cancer removal treatments available in the United States, and has the highest reported cure rate. It is a very precise technique, so most dermatologists are able to remove the cancerous lesions and affected tissues after just a single procedure.
Other key benefits of the MOHS surgical procedure include:
- Best skin cancer treatment for removing cancers around the facial area
- Patient does not have to be put to sleep during the procedure
- Quick and efficient process
- Typically performed under local anesthetic, so patient may feel only light pressure and no pain
- Procedure is typically performed in one visit
- Light post-operative bleeding can occur in some people
The wound caused by the surgery may be healed either with stitches, a skin graft, skin flaps or left alone to undergo the natural spontaneous granulation process where the body heals itself within a few weeks. The type of repair surgery you may need will depend on the level of surgery you have had and the thickness of your skin. Some dermatologists perform reconstructive procedures at their office, while others will refer you to a reconstructive or
cosmetic surgeon in your area. Ultimately, the goal is to minimize scarring and ensure that the wound heals without the risk of infection or further damage to the skin tissues.
The MOHS surgical procedure and techniques have been used in the United States since the 1930s, when Dr. Frederic Mohs introduced it to colleagues at the University of Wisconsin. Learn more about
skin cancer surgery in our information guide, or consult with a dermatologist in your area to find out if you may be a good candidate for the MOHS surgical procedure.
Published: 09/04/2009, Last Updated: 09/04/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.