Mohs surgery is among the most effective treatments for certain types of skin cancers. It is named in honor of Dr. Fredrick Mohs, who developed the technique in the 1930s. By aiding in the complete removal of cancer cells, Mohs surgery offers a high chance of a cure.

How it works

Mohs is a precision surgery that removes skin cancer while sparing healthy tissue.

•  The tumor is clearly outlined on the skin, and an anesthetic is injected.

•  All visible tumor is removed, called “debulking.”

•  Then a thin layer of tissue is removed from around and underneath where the visible tumor was located.

•  Tissue is examined under a microscope to see if all tumor cells have been removed.

•  The process may be repeated until all traces of the tumor are gone.

•  The surgical area may be closed, grafted, or allowed to heal on its own, depending on the size and location.

When it’s used

Not all types of cancer can be treated with Mohs surgery. The following criteria are used to determine when it’s the best approach:

•  Skin cancer with a high risk of recurrence

•  Tumor location where preserving healthy tissue is important

•  Skin cancer located on the face, hands, feet, genitals, and nipples

•  In immunocompromised patients who would benefit from a less invasive procedure

•  If the tumor was previously removed, but the surgical margins were not clear

Benefits

Mohs surgery provides many benefits over other forms of surgery to remove skin cancer. Your doctor or dermatologist will determine if it’s right for you.

•  Spares healthy tissue from removal

•  Provides precise control over tumor removal to ensure clear margins

•  Can be done in a doctor’s office and usually completed in one day

•  Patient stays awake for the procedure

•  Leaves the smallest possible scar

•  High cure rate