Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery, a technique for the microscopically- controlled excision of skin cancer, produces the highest cure rate for non-melanoma skin cancers suitable for the procedure.
The technique combines surgical removal of the skin cancer in a precise layer-by layer removal, with immediate microscopic examination of the removed tissue, using horizontal frozen sections to ensure no tumour remains.
Once clearance is achieved, the wound can be repaired.
This process should not be confused with frozen sections, which refers to random, intermittent sectioning, examining only a small area of the overall specimen.
Mohs surgery is a technique for the microscopically controlled excision of skin cancer, produces the highest cure rate for non-melanoma skin cancers suitable for the procedure.
Special Qualifications of MOHS Surgeons
Doctors performing Mohs surgery should have specialized training in dermatology, dermatologic surgery and dermatopathology. Advanced training in Mohs surgery is available through selected residency programmes in various countries in the world, particularly in the USA, but also including Australia and New Zealand where specialized fellowships run for one to two years, conducted by the American College of Mohs Surgery (www.mohscollege.org). Upon completion of this fellowship programme, one becomes eligible for membership of the American College of Mohs Surgery. As the procedure is exacting, the Mohs surgeon must have a suitable surgical and laboratory facility, which must be supported by welltrained Mohs nursing and histo-technological staff. Your Mohs surgeon can provide you with detailed information regarding their training in the above disciplines, as well as applicable professional affiliations.