MOHS Micrographic Surgery

Is an outpatient technique that provides the highest cure rates possible for Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and some Melanomas. The technique is named for Dr Fredrich Mohs, who originated the procedure. The skin cancer to be treated is anesthetized with local numbing medicine, then only the visible portion of the tumor is carefully removed. No normal skin is removed. This layer is then made into microscope slides in the office while the patient waits. Dr Caban examines these slides to make sure that 100% of the edges and the bottom are cancer free.

If there is more cancer at one edge, another layer at that edge is removed, and it is similarly examined microscopically. This process continues until all the cancer is removed. This produces cure rates of 99% for Basal Cell Carcinoma, while at the same time keeping the wound as small as possible because no normal skin is removed. Once the cancer has been cured, Dr. Caban and the patient decide together whether to allow the wound to heal naturally, to repair the wound surgically in the office the same day, or enlist the services of a plastic surgeon.