Secondary Intention Healing After Mohs Micrographic Surgery: An Updated Review of Classic and Novel Applications, Benefits and Complications.

Abstract

Although secondary intention healing (SIH) is a fundamental aspect of postoperative care following Mohs micrographic ssurgery (MMS), it is currently underutilized. SIH constitutes a safe, cost-effective, and versatile method for wound closure. SIH offers multiple advantages, including enhanced cancer surveillance, reduced pain, and promosing esthetic outcomes, particularly not only on certain anatomical regions such as the medial canthus, antihelix, temple, or alar crease, but also for relatively small and superficial defects on the eyelids, ears, lips, and nose, including the alar region, and defects on the hands dorsal regions. Careful patient selection and thorough risk assessment are imperative to mitigate potential complications, including retraction, hyper/hypopigmented scars, or delayed healing. This comprehensive review aims to inform evidence-based decision-making on the role of SIH in MMS, synthesizing its indications, advantages, complications, wound care, and integration with other reconstructive methods.