ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews complications as they may occur during and after Mohs surgery in chronological order. Even with appropriate patient selection, careful surgical planning, and meticulous surgical technique, complications can occur during and after Mohs micrographic surgery and wound reconstruction. In the Mohs setting, time-outs can be used in conjunction with surgical checklists to ensure accurate and safe surgery. Many Mohs patients are referred after a biopsy by a general dermatologist or primary care physician; in such cases, the Mohs surgeon is not familiar with the biopsy site. A unique aspect of Mohs surgery is the ability to treat cutaneous malignancies in the office with the use of local anesthetics. Mohs patients must be made aware that movement may compromise their safety the safety of the Mohs team. Commonly used antiseptics in Mohs surgery include betadine and chlorhexidine. Vasovagal reactions can occur at any point during Mohs surgery but can happen as early as site confirmation or local anesthesia.
