Every year, many cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in Israel, which appears as cancerous skin lesions that must be removed. Mohs surgery is an innovative technique in the field of dermatology, which offers an accurate and effective method for removing those cancerous lesions. This special procedure has gained popularity due to its high success rate, making it a highly recommended option.
What is Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs Analysis Developed by Dr. Frederick Moss in the 1930s, it has since continued to evolve, becoming one of the most accurate methods for removing cancerous skin lesions. This procedure involves removing thin layers of cancerous tissue, and then examining the tissue under a microscope. This process continues layer by layer until all the cancer cells are removed, ensuring that only the damaged tissue is removed and healthy tissue is preserved.
Mohs micrographic surgery is performed under local anesthesia, that is, without discomfort and risks and with a faster recovery time. The procedure is usually completed in one day, when the patient can return home after the surgery.
In what cases is surgery necessary?
The surgery is mainly used to treat the two most common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). It is also sometimes used to remove other skin cancers, such as melanoma. Thus, the procedure is useful in cases where:
- Skin cancer is located in a cosmetically or functionally sensitive area, such as the face, ears, or hands.
- Skin cancer has a high risk of recurrence or has already erupted again after a previous treatment.
- Skin cancer is aggressive or has undefined boundaries.
- Skin cancer spreads rapidly.
Mohs surgery is of great importance
- High success rate – With a reported cure rate of up to 99% for primary BCC and 97% for primary SCC, Mohs surgery presents the highest success rate of any treatment for these conditions.
- Tissue preservation – By removing only the damaged tissue, the surgery minimizes the amount of healthy tissue lost during the procedure. This allows for better cosmetic results, especially in sensitive areas such as the face.
- Reduced risk of further outbreak – The high accuracy of the surgery significantly reduces the chance of another outbreak of skin cancer, gives patients greater peace of mind and reduces the need for additional treatments.
- Improving the patient experience – Since the surgery is performed under local anesthesia, there is almost no discomfort and it is possible to return to activity in a short time.
We don't give up on quality of life
However we look at it, Mohs surgery is an essential tool in the fight against skin cancer, offering a precise, effective, and minimally invasive approach to treatment. With its high success rate, the surgery has become a preferred option for many patients dealing with the onset of cancerous lesions. In a world where skin cancer is considered one of the most common diseases in the world, this is a truly groundbreaking procedure!