everything you need to know about MOHS Surgery
What is MOHS Surgery?
MOHS surgery is a specialized surgical technique used primarily for the treatment of skin cancer. It's named after Dr. Frederic E. Mohs, who developed the technique in the 1930s. MOHS surgery is known for its precision in removing cancerous cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
How Does MOHS Surgery Work?
Tissue Removal: The surgeon removes thin layers of the cancerous skin tissue one layer at a time.
Mapping and Analysis: Each layer of tissue removed is meticulously mapped and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Iterative Process: If cancer cells are still present in the margins of the removed tissue, another layer is taken, but only from the specific area where cancer cells remain.
Repeat if Necessary: This process is repeated until there are no more cancer cells detected in the removed tissue, ensuring that as little healthy tissue as possible is removed.
When is MOHS Surgery Used?
MOHS surgery is particularly useful in the following scenarios:
High-Risk Areas: Skin cancers located in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, ears, nose, or around the eyes.
Large Tumors: For tumors with ill-defined borders or those that have recurred after previous treatment.
Aggressive Tumors: Skin cancers with aggressive subtypes or those with a high risk of recurrence.
Advantages of MOHS Surgery:
High Cure Rate: MOHS surgery has an exceptionally high cure rate, often exceeding 99% for certain types of skin cancer.
Tissue Conservation: It preserves as much healthy tissue as possible, which is especially important in cosmetically sensitive areas.
Immediate Analysis: Tissue examination is done immediately, allowing the surgeon to precisely locate and remove cancer cells during the same procedure.
Minimal Scarring: By targeting only the cancerous tissue, MOHS surgery minimizes scarring compared to traditional excision methods.
Recovery and Follow-Up:
Recovery Time: Recovery time varies depending on the size and location of the tumor but is generally shorter compared to other surgical methods.
Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor for any signs of recurrence and to assess the healing process.
Risks and Considerations:
Bleeding and Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of bleeding and infection, though these risks are generally low.
Scarring: While MOHS surgery aims to minimize scarring, some scarring may still occur, especially in larger tumors or areas where multiple layers of tissue are removed.
Conclusion:
MOHS surgery is a highly effective treatment option for certain types of skin cancer, offering high cure rates, tissue conservation, and minimal scarring. It's particularly beneficial for tumors located in cosmetically sensitive areas or those with a high risk of recurrence. If you suspect you have skin cancer or have been diagnosed, consulting with a dermatologist or a surgeon experienced in MOHS surgery is essential to discuss the best treatment options for your specific case.
