• Medical Dermatology
• Cosmetic Dermatology
• Continuum of Care
• Mohs Surgery

Specialized training in the Mohs surgical technique grew out of Dr. Michael Saruk's particular interest in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer as well as his fellowship training in dermatopathology.

Mohs micrographic surgery is a highly effective technique for the removal of skin cancer. The procedure was developed in the 1930s by Dr. Frederic Mohs at the University of Wisconsin and is now practiced throughout the world. Mohs surgery differs from other skin cancer treatments in that it permits the immediate and complete microscopic examination of the removed cancerous tissue, so that all "roots" and extensions of the cancer can be eliminated. Due to the methodical manner in which tissue is removed and examined, Mohs surgery has been recognized as the skin cancer treatment with the highest reported cure rate.

The facilities at DVDG include a specialized Mohs laboratory where the tissue is prepared for histologic exam using frozen sectioning of the specimen. Dr. Saruk is supported in surgery by a well-trained Mohs nursing and histotechnological staff.

Advantages of the Mohs Surgical Procedure

Some skin cancers can be deceptively large - far more extensive under the skin than they appear to be from the surface. These cancers may have "roots" in the skin, or along blood vessels nerves, or cartilage.

Skin cancers that have recurred following previous treatment may send out extensions deep under the scar tissue that has formed at the site. Mohs surgery is specifically designed to remove these cancers by tracking and removing these cancerous "roots." For this reason, prior to commencing the Mohs surgery procedure, it is impossible to predict precisely how much skin will have to be removed. The final surgical defect could be only slightly larger than the initial skin cancer but occasionally, the removal of the deep "roots" of a skin cancer results in a sizeable defect.

After the skin cancer has been removed, the surgical site generally needs cosmetic re-construction. Dr. Saruk will discuss with you your options, In many cases, he will repair the defect himself on the next day following your initial surgery. For more information about Mohs Surgery, please visit this link: http://www.mohssurgery.org and download the Society for Mohs Surgery's brochure under the Patient Resources tab at the top of the page.