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MOHS MICROGRAPHIC SURGERY

Finding a skin cancer is the first step toward curing it. Mohs micrographic surgery is the next step. Mohs surgery is a highly specialized treatment developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs for the total removal of skin cancer.

Mohs surgery differs from all other methods of treating skin cancer by combining microscopic examination with detailed mapping techniques that enable Dr. W. Patrick Davey and Dr. Anir Dhir to remove only those areas involved with cancer. Mohs surgery is painless and typically completed in one visit. The precision used in locating and removing all traces of tumor helps assure your peace of mind.

Charles Gilpin (histotechnologist) and Dr. Anir Dhir (surgeon) reading Mohs slides.

Cosmetic Results Are Better

The purpose of treatment is to remove all traces of cancer. Tissue is removed as long as cancer cells are present. The goal is to stop when there is a clean "margin" – a border of cancer-free tissue all around the former site of the tumor.

Because each small bit of tissue is examined under a microscope as it is removed, the Mohs technique enables the surgeon to know when he has a totally clean margin. The amount of tissue removed is minimized, resulting in a smaller wound which heals more quickly and with a smaller scar.

Mohs Surgery is Precise

Dr. Davey and Dr. Dhir microscopically pinpoint the areas where there are cancer cells and selectively remove layers of tissue from only those areas. The average procedure lasts two to four hours. Much of that time you will be waiting while the surgeons prepare and examine the tissue. Because of the wait, you should bring reading materials or handwork on the day of your surgery.

Expertise and Care

Dr. Davey and Dr. Dhir are members of the American College of Mohs Surgery. It is open to physicians who have completed formal training in Mohs surgery at an accredited fellowship program.

The tumor and margin of apparently normal tissue is removed around and below the lesion. The removed tissue is then divided into sections which are carefully oriented on a "map". Thin frozen tissue sections are prepared for microscopic examination. Any fingers or roots of tumor can be seen upon examination. This procedure is repeated until all margins are clear of cancer.
 
 

Mohs Cure Rate Is Over 99%

You can see a tumor on your skin. What you don't see is what is around and under the tumor – often more cancerous cells. This specialized surgical technique combines precise horizontal sectioning with careful microscopic examination. All cancerous tissue in and around the tumor is removed. The cure rate with Mohs surgery is over 99% for most types of skin cancer.

Mohs Saves Time and Money

There is no hospitalization with Mohs. The procedure is performed entirely in our outpatient surgical suites. The tissue is examined in the office. The high cure rate means fewer return visits and less need for additional treatment. And, since the area around the tumor is numbed with local anesthetic, you lose no time in recovery.

Dr. Davey and Dr. Dhir have a capable staff who have worked together for many years. They stress preventive health maintenance and strive to satisfy your medical needs in the context of your life. Realizing your time is valuable, they take pride in offering prompt and effective skin care services.

 

 

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