Abstract
Background: Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is used for the removal of difficult or recurrent skin cancer. Little is known about the behavioral changes of patients who have undergone this procedure. Objective: This study was conducted to document patients' long-term psychological and behavioral changes following MMS. Methods: A survey was mailed to a sample of 260 persons who underwent the Mohs procedure in 1997. It included questions on sunscreen use, level of anxiety about cancer, patient confidence in MMS, and changes in high-risk habits. Results: The study included 214 patients who responded to our mailed questionnaire. Trends showed an increase in some but not all preventative measures taken to avoid skin cancer recurrence post-MMS. Other healthy lifestyle changes, such as decreased cigarette smoking, were not noted. Conclusion: Mohs micrographic surgery has an impact on some aspects of patients' health-related behavior, especially skin cancer prevention. Other aspects which are not affected may be targets for extra patient education.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
About this article
Cite this article
Maser, E., Berg, D. & Solish, N. Changes in Patient Perception and Behavior Following Mohs Micrographic Surgery. JCMS 5, 14–17 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s102270000003
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s102270000003