Mohs micrographic surgery: a study of 93 tumors operated on in a specialist center in Rio de Janeiro

Introduction: Mohs micrographic surgery is a treatment option that increases the cure rate in various types of skin cancer, offering greater tissue preservation and lower recurrence rates. Objective: To describe clinically and histologically the tumors operated on with Mohs micrographic surgery, and to draw correlations to the number of stages and the type of surgical reconstruction performed. The operations were performed at a private clinic in the municipality of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil that is a specialist center for this technique. Methods: Retrospective, observational, cross-sectional/transversal study was carried out based on the review of medical records. Results: A study was conducted of 93 tumors in 84 patients, operated on between April 2010 and August 2012, and followed up with until August 2013 (12 to 42 months). Findings: 47.61% of patients were men and 52.38% were women, the mean age was 62.89 years; predominant phototypes: II (44%) and III (43%); 6 cases (6.45%) of squamous cell carcinoma, 87 (93.54%) of basal cell carcinoma; 74.19% were primary tumors; the nose was the most frequent site (46.24%); a single surgical stage was performed in most cases, with flaps (44%) being the more frequently performed type of closure. There was recurrence in one patient, who required reoperation in October 2012 and followed without new recurrence. Conclusions: Mohs surgery has proven effective with high cure rates and a minimal recurrence rate, especially in lesions located in the face's H area of risk.

Keywords: MOHS SURGRY, CARCINOMA, BASAL CELL, CARCINOMA, SQUAMOUS CELL.