Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Mohs micrographic surgery, invented by general surgeon Frederick Mohs, is a microscopically controlled surgery used to remove skin cancers. It has a cited cure rate of 97% to 99% for basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, and for squamous cell carcinoma. It has also been used to treat some melanomas.

Mohs micrographic surgery consists of the following steps:

  • Surgical removal of the visible portion of the skin cancer with excision or curettage
  • Surgical removal of a thin layer of tissue at the bed of the cancer
  • Examination of the excised tissue under the microscope, mapping out any remaining cancer
  • Repeating the process for any cancer found in the examination

This process allows for precise removal of the cancerous tissue while leaving healthy tissue in place.

The micrographic surgery team at Dermatology, Inc. consists of, in addition to Dr. Williams, surgical assistants and lab technicians. Our surgical assistants are knowledgeable about and experienced in dealing with skin cancer patients and caring for any problems that may arise. Our technicians quickly and precisely prepare tissue for microscopic examination.

For more information about Mohs micrographic surgery or other procedures for the treatment of skin cancer, please call our office at (317) 926-3739 or toll-free (800) 969-5708.


visit Outrun the Sun online
Dermatology, Inc. is proud to show its support of skin cancer awareness and research by serving as lead sponsor of the Indianapolis 2008 Outrun the Sun Race Against Melanoma on Saturday evening, June 7. More information and registration is available at www.outrunthesun.org