The Mohs Micrographic Surgery Process
Step 1: Anesthesia: the tumor site is numbed using local anesthesia. General anesthesia is not necessary for Mohs surgery.
Step 2: Removal of visible tumor is then performed by surgically removing a thin, saucer shaped “layer” of tissue.
Step 3: Mapping the tumor using orientation to landmarks (eye, nose, etc) and color-coding each section to match.
Step 4: Evaluation of processed tissue by the Mohs surgeon who will determine if margins are clear, or alternatively if additional “layers” will need to be removed to clear the tumor.
Step 5: Additional stages taken if needed to ensure all cancer cells are removed.
Step 6: Reconstruction of the wound created by removal of the tumor. The best method of repair is chosen only after the cancer has been completely removed. Stitches may be used to close the wound side-to-side, or a graft or flap may be designed. In some instances, a wound may heal very well naturally.
