Wound Care Adherence in Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND Patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) are given detailed wound care instructions to prevent postoperative complications. Previous studies have revealed low treatment adherence in general dermatology, but adherence to postoperative wound care and its potential association with poor surgical outcomes remain largely unstudied. OBJECTIVE To determine the frequency and causes of wound care nonadherence in patients who underwent MMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A questionnaire containing a modified Eight-Item Morisky Medication Adherence Measure Scale was administered to Mohs patients at their 1 to 2 weeks postoperative visit. RESULTS Sixty-three patients were solicited and consented to completing the questionnaire. The average modified Eight-Item Morisky Medication Adherence Measure Scale score was 7.4 of 8, indicating high adherence. Old age and wound care assistance were associated with increased adherence. Factors contributing to nonadherence included feeling well, being too busy, wound care causing discomfort, and being with friends or family. One patient (1.6%) with high adherence developed an epidermal inclusion cyst within the scar. No other complications were observed. CONCLUSION Most MMS patients demonstrated high adherence to wound care instructions, and nonadherence was not associated with postoperative complications.