Slow Mohs micrographic surgery for nail apparatus melanoma in situ

BackgroundNail apparatus melanoma is a malignant tumor with a high incidence in Chinese melanoma patients. Slow Mohs micrographic surgery is an emerging technique for treating nail apparatus melanoma in situ (NAMIS).ObjectiveThis study evaluated the efficacy and safety of slow Mohs micrographic surgery for treating NAMIS.MethodsPatients were enrolled in this retrospective study and treated in a single center from October 1, 2016, to June 30, 2022. Each patient underwent standard slow Mohs micrographic surgery, and follow-up was regularly conducted at clinics.ResultsTen patients were enrolled in the study. Two patients underwent one Mohs stage, seven underwent two Mohs stages, and one underwent seven Mohs stages. The resection margin ranged from 5 to 25 mm. No severe complications were reported in the treatment, and recurrence of NAMIS was not observed during the follow-up period.ConclusionSlow Mohs micrographic surgery is a valuable surgical method to treat NAMIS that preserves digit function and can be well tolerated by patients.