Skin cancer affects many people, and treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Mohs surgery is a precise and effective treatment available for certain skin cancers. Understanding the procedure can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options. Here is more information on what skin cancer is, its causes, and how Mohs surgery works as a treatment method:
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer develops when skin cells grow abnormally and form malignant tumors. The three main types include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with basal cell carcinoma being the most common. These cancers typically appear on areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, neck, and hands.
Early detection improves treatment outcomes, and various treatment options exist depending on the cancer type and location. Mohs surgery represents one of the most effective treatments for specific types of skin cancer, particularly those located in cosmetically sensitive areas. The procedure allows for the precise removal of cancerous tissue while sparing healthy surrounding skin.
What Causes It?
Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight is the primary cause of most skin cancers. Ultraviolet (UV) light damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can result in cancerous growth. Cumulative sun exposure over time increases the risk, particularly for those with fair skin, light eyes, and blonde or red hair. Additional risk factors include a history of sunburns, use of tanning beds, and exposure to certain chemicals.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is a specialized technique for removing skin cancer layer by layer. The technique involves removing thin layers of tissue and examining each layer under a microscope during the procedure. This approach allows surgeons to identify and remove all cancerous cells while preserving healthy tissue. The method is particularly effective for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, especially when located on the face or other areas where tissue preservation is beneficial.
What Does the Process Involve?
Surgery begins with the surgeon marking the treatment area and administering local anesthesia. The visible tumor is removed first, along with a thin layer of surrounding tissue, which is then immediately processed and examined under a microscope. The surgeon creates a detailed map of the removed tissue to track the location of any remaining cancer cells.
If cancer cells are found at the edges of the removed tissue, the surgeon removes another layer from the specific area where cancer remains. This process continues until no cancer cells are detected, and the entire procedure typically takes several hours. The final step involves reconstructing the wound. The surgeon discusses the best reconstruction approach based on each patient’s specific situation.
What Are the Benefits?
Mohs surgery’s precision allows for maximum preservation of healthy tissue, which is particularly beneficial for cancers on the face, ears, or other cosmetically sensitive areas. This tissue-sparing approach may result in small scars and satisfactory cosmetic outcomes. The immediate microscopic examination provides real-time feedback about the completeness of cancer removal. This helps to eliminate guesswork, reduce the need for additional procedures, and allow patients to receive definitive results.
Consult a Dermatologist Today
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer or have concerns about suspicious skin lesions, consult with a qualified dermatologist. Early detection and appropriate treatment help improve outcomes, and these specialists can determine if Mohs surgery is the right treatment option for your specific situation. Take action today to protect your health and discuss your treatment options with a medical professional.
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