Professional
Technical
IVT
Mohs surgery
Pronunciation: MOHZ SUR-jer-ee
Specialized microsurgical technique for removing skin cancer layer by layer with immediate histologic examination.
Full Definition
A precise surgical technique developed by Dr. Frederic Mohs for treating skin cancers, particularly basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. The procedure involves removing thin layers of cancerous tissue one at a time and examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells remain. This method achieves the highest cure rates while preserving the maximum amount of healthy tissue, making it ideal for cancers in cosmetically sensitive areas like the face.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Mohs' as it's named after Dr. Frederic Mohs.
In Context
- "The patient was referred for Mohs surgery given the basal cell carcinoma's location near the nasal ala." — surgical consultation note
- "Mohs surgery achieved clear margins with excellent cosmetic outcome for the facial lesion." — operative report
Also known as
micrographic surgery
Mohs micrographic surgery
Don't confuse with
excisional biopsy
wide local excision