Mohs surgery in Australia: A survey of work practices

• Published in: Australasian journal of dermatology Vol. 52; no. 2; pp. 98 - 103
• Main Authors: Rutherford, Tim, Elliott, Tim, Vinciullo, Carl
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Melbourne, Australia Blackwell Publishing Asia 01.05.2011; Wiley-Blackwell
• Subjects: Adult; Australia; Australia - epidemiology; Biological and medical sciences; Dermatology; Dermatology - manpower; Dermatology - trends; Female; Health Care Surveys; Humans; Male; Medical sciences; Middle Aged; Mohs micrographic surgery; Mohs Surgery - statistics & numerical data; Mohs Surgery - utilization; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures - statistics & numerical data; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures - utilization; skin cancer; Skin Neoplasms - epidemiology; Skin Neoplasms - surgery; Surgical Flaps - statistics & numerical data; Tumors of the skin and soft tissue. Premalignant lesions; workforce; Australia; Oceania; Mohs micrographic surgery; Skin disease; Survey; Treatment; Dermatology; Surgery; workforce; Malignant tumor; Australia; Cancer; Skin cancer
• ISSN: 0004-8380; 1440-0960
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-0960.2011.00751.x

ABSTRACT Background:  Mohs micrographic surgery is the preferred treatment for certain skin cancers. It had already been considerably refined prior to its introduction into Australia in 1978, refinement has continued since. Documenting the work practices of Australian Mohs surgeons serves to clarify the current role of Mohs surgery and may help tailor future Mohs fellowship programs. Methods:  A survey was conducted to investigate the characteristics and clinical practices of Australian Mohs surgeons, particularly as they relate to skin cancer management and aesthetic dermatology. Results:  The typical Australian Mohs surgeon is male (90%), works in a group private practice (70%), and is aged 40–44 years (37%). Mohs surgery is generally reserved for tumours that are located on the head, neck, digits or genitals (98%), and flap reconstructions are the commonest repair types performed (48%). Laser and cosmetic injectable treatments form part of many Mohs surgeon's repertoires. Conclusion:  Australian Mohs surgeons make an important contribution to the management of skin cancer in Australia and many are skilled in laser and cosmetic procedures. The increasing number of cases performed annually and the familiarity with laser and cosmetic therapies reinforces Australian dermatologists as leaders in these important areas of dermatology.