Mohs '98

Abstract

For more than 50 years, the Mohs technique has offered both the highest cure rate for skin cancers and the maximum preservation of surrounding normal tissue. Mohs skin cancer excision is traditionally performed by a Mohs dermatologist, followed by a secondary repair by a head and neck or plastic surgeon. This study comprises a review of 300 cases involving single-procedure Mohs therapy with immediate one-anesthetic reconstruction. The data reviewed include types of reconstructions, cosmetic results, complications, and recurrence rates. In addition to offering the psychologic and quality advantages of immediate closure, the procedure allows patients to return to work sooner. With changes in technique ranging from the chemosurgery of the 1930s to the fresh-tissue methods of the 1970s, single-procedure Mohs is the logical next step in the evolution of Mohs surgery.