Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Pronunciation: MOHZ my-kroh-GRAF-ik SUR-jer-ee
A specialized surgical technique for skin cancer in which successive thin layers of tissue are excised and immediately examined histologically to ensure complete tumour clearance.
Full Definition
Mohs micrographic surgery (named after Frederic Mohs) is the gold standard for treating high-risk non-melanoma skin cancers, particularly basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, in cosmetically or functionally sensitive locations. Each excised layer is mapped and processed intraoperatively, enabling precise identification and removal of residual tumour while sparing healthy tissue. Editors will encounter references to 'Mohs stages' (numbered layers), 'Mohs defect', and 'Mohs surgeon' in operative notes and oncology correspondence. Capitalisation of 'Mohs' (proper noun, eponym) is mandatory in all registers. It should not be shortened to 'MOHs' as if it were an acronym.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalise 'Mohs'. Never render as 'MOHs' or 'mohs'. The phrase 'Mohs defect' refers to the wound left after tumour excision and is standard in reconstructive surgery notes.
In Context
- "The operative note stated that Mohs micrographic surgery achieved clear margins after two stages." — Operative note
- "Editors should always capitalise 'Mohs' as it is an eponymous proper noun, not an acronym." — Style guide