Mohs micrographic surgery is a technique that allows the removal of skin tumors but also protects the surrounding healthy skin, with higher healing rates, compared to traditional surgery.
What does Mohs surgery consist of?
Mohs micrographic surgery consists of controlling through a microscope the edges and the bottom of the tumor during the intervention. This is carried out in “layers”, analyzing them and thus ensuring the removal with free margins. This allows the dermatologist to preserve as much of the healthy skin surrounding the tumor as possible, allowing smaller surgical defects, as well as a much more aesthetic repair.
The fresh technique requires not only a surgical team but also the presence of a pathologist and an Anatomical Pathology technician during the intervention, so that in the same surgical act, we ensure the complete removal of the tumor.
When can Mohs surgery be used?
Mohs surgery is indicated in:
- Certain skin tumors, such as basal cell carcinoma, in areas with high risk of deep infiltration.
- Some epidermoid carcinomas.
- Malignant lentigines.
- Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
It is important to note that these are skin cancers whose risk of occurrence increases if there is a family history and excessive exposure to ultraviolet light.
Is Mohs surgery 100% safe?
Mohs surgery is very safe because it is performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation, so it is a comfortable process for the patient. In addition, it is the technique with the lowest risk of cancer recurrence in the future.