Second-Intention Healing in Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A Single-Center Academic Experience

Abstract

OBJECTIVE To describe the trends in second-intention healing (SIH) use at a single Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) dermatology clinic and assess outcomes and patient satisfaction. METHODS The authors conducted a single-center, retrospective study of patients who underwent MMS from November 2012 through November 2018. Data obtained for each patient included sex, age, tumor characteristics, number of MMS stages, final defect size, and postoperative complications. Patient satisfaction of SIH was retrospectively assessed by telephone survey. RESULTS Providers used SIH in 22% of all MMS cases (n = 159/718). It was most commonly used for defects located on the nose, ear, temple, and periocular region. The average defect size and number of MMS stages for tumor clearance were 1.3 cm and 1.5 stages, respectively. Overall, low rates of postoperative complications were observed, and 95% of patients reported optimal or acceptable levels of satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the idea that SIH is a safe, effective alternative for wound management and may have broader practice indications than those traditionally proposed.