Mohs micrographic surgery is a state of the art treatment for skin cancer in which the physician serves as surgeon, pathologist, and reconstructive surgeon. It relies on the precision and accuracy of a microscope to trace and ensure removal of skin cancer down to its roots. Of all treatments for skin cancer, Mohs micrographic surgery:

• Offers the highest cure rate (up to 99%);
• Minimizes the potential for scarring or disfigurement;
• Is the most exact and precise means of removal.

For decades, Mohs micrographic surgery has proven effective in getting to the roots of skin cancer by combining the surgical removal of cancer with the immediate microscopic examination of the tumor and underlying diseased tissue. This process allows dermatologists who are trained in Mohs surgery to see beyond the visible disease and precisely identify and remove the entire tumor with "real time" clear margins (minimal removal of wound tissue). While the procedure is time consuming, it yields a very high cure rate while allowing for maximal preservation of non-cancerous tissue.
Mohs micrographic surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, under local anesthesia. By using what has become known as the "fresh tissue technique", skin samples removed during surgery are immediately processed and examined under the microscope for cancer. Working closely with a highly trained technician, the dermatologist can determine the precise location of any remaining cancerous tissue within the wound. This remaining cancerous tissue is then selectively removed and processed in the same fashion until the cancer is completely removed.
Mohs surgery is indicated for recurrent tumors, aggressive cancer variants, and tumors located in areas of high risk for recurrence, such as on and around the nose, or areas where maximal tissue preservation is important for function and for cosmetic appearance (e.g. eyelids). Reconstructive surgery involving suture closures, skin flaps, or skin grafts can usually be done on the same day as Mohs surgery. This technique ensures that all the diseased tissue and only the diseased tissue is removed, thereby minimizing the size of the wound and optimizing the cosmetic result. Since most skin cancers do not require Mohs surgery, we will discuss the various treatment options available and recommend the one(s) most suitable for you.
Dr. Krant performs Mohs surgery in our office. Any patients referred for Mohs are always returned to the referring physician after appropriate follow-up care.

Photodynamic Theraphy For Pre-Cancerous Lesions