When it comes to treating complex skin cancers, precision and efficacy are among the top priorities for patients and healthcare professionals. Mohs surgery has steadily gained recognition for its ability to address certain types of skin cancers while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Whether it be for you or a loved one, it could be beneficial to understand the basics such as; what Mohs surgery is, the types of skin cancer it can treat, and what patients can expect during the procedure.
What is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat certain skin cancers. It involves the precise removal of cancerous tissue layer by layer. This procedure is performed in stages, with each layer of tissue being examined under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains. This method is distinct in its ability to achieve a high level of accuracy. By examining tissue margins during surgery, Mohs surgeons can confirm the removal of cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. It may be completed on the same day, depending on the complexity of the case.
What Kinds of Skin Cancers Can It Treat?
While not suitable for all cases, this treatment is often recommended for specific types of skin cancer. These include:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form of skin cancer, BCC often occurs in sun-exposed areas such as the face and neck. Mohs surgery is widely used for these cases, especially when the cancer is aggressive or located in cosmetically sensitive areas.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC is another common form of skin cancer often addressed with this surgery. This approach can be particularly beneficial for SCCs that are high-risk, recurrent, or located on parts of the body where preserving functionality and appearance is a priority.
- Certain Types of Melanoma: For some early-stage melanomas or melanomas in situ, Mohs surgery may be used. While not as common as its use for BCC or SCC, it is a viable option for specific cases.
What Should You Expect?
During the Procedure
Mohs surgery involves a step-by-step process. Local anesthesia is first administered to numb the target area. The surgeon will then remove a thin layer of tissue from the cancer site. This tissue is immediately examined under a microscope to determine whether cancer cells remain.
If cancer cells are detected, additional layers of tissue are removed and analyzed until no remaining cancer is identified. Each stage takes time due to the laboratory analysis, so your visit may last several hours. The benefit of this layered approach is that it minimizes the removal of healthy tissue while targeting cancerous cells effectively.
After the Procedure
After the surgery is complete, your surgeon will explain wound care and discuss options for closing the surgical site. This may involve stitches or leaving the wound to heal naturally, depending on its size and location. Recovery is generally straightforward. Most patients can return to normal activities relatively quickly, although protection of the surgery site from sun exposure and other external factors is typically advised.
Also Read: How Dermatology Helps Detect Skin Cancer Before It Spreads?
Picking the Right Surgeon
The success of this kind of treatment depends on the expertise of the surgeon performing the procedure. Specialized training is required for practitioners to master this technique, and many Mohs surgeons are also board-certified dermatologists with extensive experience in skin cancer treatment. Mohs surgery offers a path to treatment that prioritizes both accuracy and preservation. For those facing a skin cancer diagnosis, a consultation with a qualified Mohs surgeon can provide clarity about whether this procedure is a suitable option.
