Medicare trends in auricular cartilage and composite graft utilization amongst Mohs surgeons and other specialists from 2013 to 2022
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Presented at: Society for Investigative Dermatology 2025
Date: 2025-05-07 00:00:00
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Summary: Purpose: Cartilage and composite grafts are technically challenging yet remain valuable reconstruction methods in Mohs surgery. The frequency of utilization by Mohs surgeons compared to other specialists is currently unknown. Herein, we determine the frequency of auricular cartilage and composite graft utilization by Mohs surgeons compared to other specialists treating the Medicare population over the last decade. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was performed using the Medicare Public Use Files from 2013 through 2022. Results: Of all Mohs surgeons billing Medicare from 2013 through 2022, a total of 7.95% (278/3498) utilized auricular cartilage grafts and 0.09% (3/3498) utilized composite grafts. Mohs surgeons performed their highest number of auricular cartilage grafts in 2015 (419/1563, 26.8%) and their lowest in 2020 (249/1160, 21.5%). Mohs surgeons performed 100% of all Medicare composite grafts in 2018 (17/17) and 2022 (19/19) and none in 2017, 2019, or 2021. Mohs surgeons performed the most composite grafts (125/343, 36.4%) across all specialties. The only specialty surpassing Mohs surgery (3345/14303, 23.4%) in auricular cartilage graft usage was otolaryngology (6371/14303, 44.5%). Conclusion: Auricular cartilage grafts are utilized more often than composite grafts across all specialties. Mohs surgeons comprise a large subset of specialists employing both auricular cartilage and composite grafts, underscoring the utility of both in Mohs reconstruction. Analyzing these demographics within the Medicare-eligible population enables healthcare providers to strategically adapt surgical protocols, enhance physician training, and optimize resource allocation to better serve the evolving needs of older adults. Samantha S. Sattler<sup>1</sup>, Andrea Tan<sup>2</sup>, Jordan B. Slutsky<sup>1</sup> 1. Department of Dermatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, United States. 2. Department of Dermatology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States. Clinical Research: Epidemiology and Observational Research