Factors Deterring the Utilization of Mohs Surgery for Treatment of Melanoma: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey of Mohs Surgeons

Abstract

that treatment for tumors scored as uncertain, "…may be appropriate and acceptable. Uncertainty implies that more research is needed to classify the indication definitively." And, "…uncertain should not equate with grounds for denial of payment."(2) "Uncertain" aptly applies to many current sBCC scenarios scored as "appropriate." Their reclassification to "uncertain" would not deny patients MMS.We disagree with Petersen and colleagues conclusion that their study, "… provides strong support for the current MAUC scoring." 1 MH is likely not a factor affecting NEST cure rates and current evidence suggests MMS does not offer higher cure rates, requires more stages to clearance than for other types of BCC, and often leaves significantly larger defects. Based on all available evidence, the MAUC for sBCC merit reconsideration.

Factors Influencing General Dermatologists When Referring Patients With Head and Neck Melanoma for Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey

“…8 However, only a minority of Mohs surgeons treat melanoma with MMS. [9][10][11][12][13][14][15] Given that general dermatologists play a vital role in treating and referring patients with melanoma, this nationwide cross-sectional survey sought to investigate the practice habits and referral preferences of general dermatologists regarding MMS for treating melanoma on the head and neck.…”

Commentary on Factors Deterring the Utilization of Mohs Surgery for Treatment of Melanoma: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey of Mohs Surgeons

“…In this issue of Dermatologic Surgery , Siscos and colleagues 1 describe factors deterring utilization of Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) for the treatment of melanoma. A nationwide survey of surgeons in the American College of Mohs Surgery identified lack of training, the belief that frozen section analysis is unreliable, and the cost and time involved in performing immunostains as major barriers to performing MMS for melanoma.…”