Mohs Surgery vs. Other Skin Cancer Treatments: What Sets It Apart in Northeast Ohio

Many consider Mohs micrographic surgery the best option for treating certain common types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The process involves the layer-by-layer removal and microscopic examination of skin tissue and continues until no cancer cells remain. This precise method allows for a nearly real-time microscopic evaluation of the site, ensuring removal to the roots of the cancerous lesion. 

Highest Cure Rates

Mohs surgery is valued for its exceptionally high cure rates—up to 99% for primary BCC and 95% to 99% for SCC. It is often used for recurrent or high-risk facial tumors. These procedures can take several hours and require a specialist surgeon. 

Alternatives include: 

• Conventional surgery has a cure rate of about 90–95%. It is a quicker procedure and more widely available but can inadvertently remove more healthy tissue. 
• Cryotherapy offers an 85–90% cure rate and is appropriate for superficial, low-risk lesions, though recurrence is possible. 
• Curettage and electrodesiccation (ED&C) provides an 85–90% cure rate. The procedure involves scraping the lesion, followed by the use of an electric current to destroy residual cancer cells and control bleeding. It is suitable for superficial, low-risk lesions. 
• Topical treatments can offer a 70–90% cure rate and are reserved for superficial BCC or precancerous lesions. 

Mohs Surgery: How It’s Done 

• The surgeon examines the visible portion of the lesion. Cancer can recur if roots that extend deeper into the skin are not removed. 
• The treatment area is numbed with local anesthesia, and the visible part of the tumor is carefully excised. Each subsequent layer of tissue is removed and divided into sections for microscopic analysis. 
• The surgical team creates a color-coded map of the surgical site, allowing the surgeon to precisely examine the edges and undersurface of each tissue sample. 
• Deeper layers are removed only from areas where cancer cells remain, and the process continues until no cancer is detected. 

Trust the Care of Allied Dermatology’s Mohs Surgery Team 

Mohs surgery is the most effective treatment for many skin cancers, and Allied Dermatology is among the most trusted providers in Northeast Ohio. Our highly trained team of surgeons and technicians brings exceptional credentials, experience, and dedication to achieving the best patient outcomes. 

To learn more about Mohs surgery at Allied Dermatology, call (866) 337-6631 or contact us online.