Basal Cell and Mohs Surgery

[TeeRuh]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmcgonig Given that in mohs they need to keep cutting until no cancer is found i.e., they don't know how far the cancer extends until they test each cut, I wonder how they know how far and wide to aim the radiation?

The width (area) is controlled by a "mask" (for lack of a better word) placed over the effected area during the radiation treatment (about 3 minutes). As far as how they calculate the total dosage I'm not sure. Though the equipment is new the concept (brachytherapy) has been used on other types of cancer. This option can NOT be used for melanoma.


t.r.

[bmcgonig]

Quote:

Originally Posted by TeeRuh The width (area) is controlled by a "mask" (for lack of a better word) placed over the effected area during the radiation treatment (about 3 minutes). As far as how they calculate the total dosage I'm not sure. Though the equipment is new the concept (brachytherapy) has been used on other types of cancer. This option can NOT be used for melanoma. t.r.

But how do they know how big the mask should be? What's confusing me is how do they know the width/size for the radiation if the Mohs surgeon has to cut and test many times to get the same info?

[TeeRuh]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bmcgonig But how do they know how big the mask should be? What's confusing me is how do they know the width/size for the radiation if the Mohs surgeon has to cut and test many times to get the same info?

The MOHS surgeon drew a circle around what he felt was the cancerous area (a biopsy was done initially). It is a radiation so I'm sure the "edge" is not as controlled as with a scalpel. I don't want to claim to know all of the "science" behind this. You may want to google more info or if a candidate find a doctor to counsel with. I am happy with the overall procedure. There is a lack of long term studies following this approach. My age (69) was a factor in my decision.


t.r.

[bmcgonig]

Quote:

Originally Posted by TeeRuh The MOHS surgeon drew a circle around what he felt was the cancerous area (a biopsy was done initially). It is a radiation so I'm sure the "edge" is not as controlled as with a scalpel. I don't want to claim to know all of the "science" behind this. You may want to google more info or if a candidate find a doctor to counsel with. I am happy with the overall procedure. There is a lack of long term studies following this approach. My age (69) was a factor in my decision. t.r.

I'm sure it works. Lots of studies seem to back it up. My questions were just out of curiosity.

[Animorph]

I did have that option once of Moh's or excision, so I assume the dermatologist has some idea of the probable extent of the cancer, for radiation or excision. I don't remember if they did a followup biopsy for the excision.

DW had her nose Moh's yesterday. Got it with one cut, but we had to wait an hour for the biopsy and another hour and a half for the repair. DW was a little surprised at the additional cuts made for the repair (so it doesn't pucker). Guess I forgot to warn her about that. A little sore yesterday, but less sore today. She did feel weird walking through Costco and having a hot dog for lunch with gauze over her nose, but did fine.

[imoldernu]

Fluouricil

In our CCRC, dozens of regulars who go for tests, scrapings, suspicious skin reviews.
Some in their 90's who go almost weekly. Haven't asked, but continuous visits must run into the multi thousands of dollars.

My one and only time.... 8 years ago... 100 miles, $200, cut and stitch. ok , as far as that was concerned, but an "unauthorized scraping"...of nose for suspicion. Call to return the next week, for results. Didn't go.

Tube or jar of fluourocil, $100 to $200...

Use daily suspicious spots as needed... probably 100 different times.... took care of all. Often, a short term redness for a week or so. More for use on head or other body parts, but can be used for facial cancers.... just need a band-aid cover.

Suggest you ask your regular doctor. It requires a prescription.

[irishgal]

One of the benefits of Mohs is that it not only is able to get good clean margins, but the scarring after healing is very minimal. This is why only specific surgeons do it, they are being very aware of the "cosmetic" impact on the area being treated.
I think the anticipatory anxiety is awful but you will be relieved once its over.

Good luck!!