Slow micrographic Surgery improves Nail Apparatus Melanoma in Situ outcome

In a recent study by Shu Zhang and peers have found that slow Mohs micrographic surgery is an effective and safe technique for treating nail apparatus melanoma in situ (NAMIS), a malignant tumor with a high incidence among Chinese melanoma patients. The findings of the study were published in .

The retrospective study, carried out between October 2016 and June 2022, enrolled ten patients diagnosed with NAMIS. Each patient underwent slow Mohs micrographic surgery, a specialized technique that allows for the precise removal of cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Regular follow-up appointments were scheduled to monitor the patients' progress.

Among the participants, 2 patients required one Mohs stage, 7 patients underwent two stages, and one patient underwent a more extensive treatment involving seven stages. The resection margin, indicating the distance between the excised tumor and the surrounding healthy tissue, ranged from 5 to 25 mm. Importantly, no severe complications were reported during or after the treatment, demonstrating the safety of the procedure.

Furthermore, the researchers observed no recurrence of NAMIS during the follow-up period, indicating that slow Mohs micrographic surgery effectively eliminated the cancerous cells. This finding underscores the potential of this surgical method as an effective treatment option for NAMIS.

One of the notable advantages of slow Mohs micrographic surgery is its ability to preserve digit function. Given that the procedure involves the nail apparatus, which is essential for normal hand and finger movement, this aspect is crucial for patients' quality of life and overall satisfaction with the treatment. The fact that patients in the study tolerated the procedure well further supports the potential of this technique for wider clinical application.

In conclusion, the study highlights slow Mohs micrographic surgery as a valuable surgical method for treating NAMIS. With its efficacy, safety, and preservation of digit function, this technique holds promise for improving outcomes for patients with nail apparatus melanoma. 

Reference:

Zhang, S., Wang, Y., Fang, K., Jia, Q., Zhang, H., & Qu, T. (2023). Slow Mohs micrographic surgery for nail apparatus melanoma in situ. In International Journal of Dermatology. Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.16748