Mairi Ferguson - Dermatologist

Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Mohs surgery is a highly specialised technique used for the removal of basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas on the head and neck.

It has the highest cure rate and the lowest rate of recurrence.  With the Mohs technique, the maximum amount of healthy tissue is spared.  This allows for smaller wounds and better cosmetic and functional outcomes.

The main difference with Mohs is that the tumour is removed and made into horizontal frozen pathology sections on the day.  The patient waits with a temporary dressing whilst the Mohs surgeon examines the tissue under the microscope.  With Mohs 100% of the deep and peripheral margin is examined.  In conventional surgery only around 1% of the margin is examined.  The tissue is orientated like a clock face so that the Mohs surgeon knows exactly where to take more tissue if they see a 'root' or extension of tumour under the microscope.  These stages are repeated until all the tumour is removed.  The wound will then be repaired by the Mohs surgeon or a surgical specialist such as an oculoplastic surgeon.

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https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/private/dermatology/mairi-ferguson-dermatologist/