Excisional Biopsy

Excerpt

Excisional biopsy is a critical diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to remove an entire lesion or mass for histopathological examination. Unlike incisional or core biopsies, which sample only a portion of the lesion, excisional biopsies provide a complete specimen, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the lesion’s morphology, architecture, and margins. This approach is especially valuable when the clinical and radiological findings are inconclusive or when malignancy is suspected, and a definitive diagnosis is required.

Excisional biopsy is commonly used to evaluate cutaneous, subcutaneous, and deeper tissue lesions, particularly when malignancy is suspected or the lesion’s heterogeneity could lead to diagnostic inaccuracies. By sampling the entirety of the tissue, this procedure ensures a comprehensive histopathologic evaluation, minimizing the risk of misdiagnosis and guiding appropriate treatment strategies. Furthermore, excisional biopsies can be diagnostic and therapeutic, particularly for smaller, localized lesions that can be completely removed during the procedure.

While excisional biopsy offers distinct diagnostic advantages, it also requires careful preoperative planning to minimize complications and ensure optimal outcomes. Factors such as lesion location, patient comorbidities, and the potential need for further surgical interventions are pivotal in determining the procedural approach. This course reviews the indications, techniques, and clinical considerations surrounding excisional biopsies, highlighting their role in advancing diagnostic accuracy and guiding patient management.