Five-year results of Mohs' micrographic surgery for aggressive facial basal cell carcinoma in Sweden.

Mohs' micrographic surgery of facial basal cell carcinoma ensures a high cure rate with maximal preservation of healthy tissue. Using precise margin control, this procedure allows complete examination of all margins of tissue removed. Due to the insufficient facilities for Mohs' micrographic surgery in Sweden, only the most aggressive tumours are referred for this procedure, which could increase the risk of recurrences. We have operated on 228 basal cell carcinomas, 87 primary and 141 recurrent tumours, over the period 1983 to 1992. The tumours were located on the face and all patients were followed for 5 years after surgery. The recurrence rate was 6.5% for primary and 10% for recurrent basal cell carcinomas. After 12 months the functional and cosmetic results were evaluated, showing good or satisfactory results in 93% of cases. Mohs' surgery is an underused but still efficacious technique in Sweden and should be recommended to other centres.