Mohs micrographic surgery versus surgical excision for periocular basal cell carcinoma

Background Basal cell carcinoma ( BCC) is the commonest skin cancer in the white population. It is traditionally treated by surgical excision ( SE) or by Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Objectives The objective of this review was to compare the effectiveness, cost, complications and acceptability of periocular BCCs when operated by MMS or SE. Search strategy We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) ( which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group Trials Register) ( The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2008), MEDLINE ( January 1950 to January 2009) and EMBASE ( January 1980 to January 2009). There were no language or date restrictions in the search for trials. The electronic databases were last searched on 12 January 2009. Selection criteria We planned to include only randomised controlled trials ( RCTs) comparing SE with MMS for treatment of periocular BCC. Data collection and analysis We did not find any studies that met the inclusion criteria for this review. Main results We did not find any studies that met the inclusion criteria for this review and hence none were included for analysis. Results of nonrandomised studies describing the individual techniques are reported. Authors' conclusions No reliable conclusions could be reached regarding which method of treatment ( SE or MMS) resulted in a lower recurrence or complication rate for periocular BCC. No studies were found comparing the cost of either method directly. High quality RCTs are therefore needed to improve the evidence base for the management of this condition.