Mohs Surgery

What is Mohs surgery?

Briefly, Mohs Micrographic Surgery is a highly specialized, state-of-the-art technique used for the treatment of skin cancers.  This procedure was first developed in th 1930’s br Dr. Frederick Mohs, a professor of surgery at the University of Wisconsin.  Mohs micrographic surgery is distinct from routine surgical excision.  With the Mohs technique, the tumor is locally injected with anesthesia, surgically removed, the tissue is carefully mapped, color-coded, and thoroughly examined microscopically by Dr. Cotter on the same day of surgery. During this process, 100% of the tissue margins are evaluated to ensure that the tumor is completely removed prior to repair of the skin defect.  Mohs micrographic surgery therfore results in the highest cure rate for complex skin cancers while minimizing the removal of normal tissue.

Advantages of Mohs Micrographic surgery

• Highest cure rate for skin cancer
• Smallest amount of normal skin removed maximizing the likelihood for preserving function and minimizing scar
• Fewer risks with local anesthesia compared with general anesthesia

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

A Patient Guide

Things to remember for Mohs procedure:

• The Mohs procedure could take all day
• Take your morning medications as usual
• Bring any medications you may need for the remainder of the day with you
• Eat a well balanced breakfast: pack a snack and lunch
• Bring a book, magazine or other material for something to do
• Because the day could be quite tiring, it is advisable to have someone accompany you, for companionship and to drive you home