11/14/2008

LAYERED APPROACH TO SKIN-CANCER SURGERY

Mohs micrographic surgery, the gold standard for treating many skin cancers, is used when the shape or depth of a tumor is not known, when the tumor is in a hard-to-treat area, or when the tumor is in recurrence. The technique involves the use of a local anesthetic and the removal of one thin layer at a time, which is then examined under a microscope, The tissue is mapped on a color-coded grid so that the surgeon can pinpoint the corresponding location on the wound. If cancerous tissues are still found, the process is repeated until the slides are cancer-free. This conservative approach, utilizing microscopic inspection of skin samples, best preserves healthy tissue surrounding the skin cancer.

Anyone who spends a lot of time in the sun is at risk for developing skin cancer. If you notice unusual moles on your skin or experience skin discomfort, please call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to schedule an evaluation of your skin, We provide diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer. We also provide a range of cosmetic services, such as Botox and microdermabrasion. Our practice is located at 103 N. Haven, Suite 7, Elmhurst. Best wishes for a happy Thanksgiving holiday!

P.S. The cure rate for treating new basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas using Mohs surgery exceeds 97%.