Mohs Mapping Fidelity: Optimizing Orientation, Accuracy, and Tissue Identification in Mohs Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a highly effective process that requires consistent accuracy in resection, mapping, and histologic interpretation. Although the general sequence in MMS is similar, there are numerous variations among Mohs surgeons as to how this process is performed.

OBJECTIVE: This article aims to review the process of MMS, with the intent to identify and mitigate the potential errors at each step. Existing variations will be discussed and protocols offered to minimize error and optimize accuracy.

METHODS: A Pubmed search was performed for publications on methods of tissue mapping, orienting, and processing in MMS.

RESULTS: Our literature review highlights various techniques for tissue orientation, transfer, flattening, inking, mapping, and processing of later stages and multiple specimens. We discuss our system, which reduces error during tissue transfer, tissue identification in vivo and ex vivo, and tissue flattening. Furthermore, we discuss adaptations to increase the accuracy during reexcisions of subsequent Mohs layers.

CONCLUSION: Variations in MMS reflects the diverse training and creativity among Mohs surgeons. Unless potential errors are addressed, however, false negatives will occur and undermine the superior cure rate of MMS.