Mohs Micrographic Surgery Technique

Mohs technique is a precise method for removing skin tumors that, during excision, preserves healthy tissue. Common skin tumors treated with this technique are squamous and basal cell carcinoma. The American College of Mohs Surgery has established guidelines for the use of the technique. Tumor localization, patient characteristics, and tumor features should be considered when assessing whether this technique is the right choice. It’s useful in regions such as eyelids, lips and genitals. There are no absolute contraindications for the use of the Mohs technique. Before the surgery, a discussion with the patient should take place, a physical examination focusing on the tumor, and insight into the patient’s medical records should be obtained. During the preoperative period, the nature of the tumor should be explained to the patient, and the entire procedure should be described. The surgical instruments, operating room, and laboratory for processing and examining tissue under microscope are necessary for performing the technique. The intervention is usually done under local anesthesia with protective margin of 1 - 5 mm. After excision, the specimen is processed and examined under a microscope. If microscopic examination reveals the presence of tumor tissue on the edges, the excision process is repeated until the tumor is completely removed. Wound infection, bleeding, hematomas, wound dehiscence, and the development of hypertrophic or keloid scars are complications. The Mohs technique is a precise procedure used for treating skin tumors, verifying the entire tumor margin and preserving the maximum amount of healthy tissue.