Incisional and excisional biopsies are two different techniques used to remove tissue samples for examination, typically to diagnose diseases such as cancer or other abnormal tissue growths.
1.
- Incisional Biopsy:
- Definition: A small portion of the suspicious tissue or lesion is removed for examination.
- Purpose: This is used when the lesion is too large or difficult to remove entirely, or when the diagnosis can be made by examining just a part of it.
- Procedure: A surgeon or physician makes an incision and removes a small sample of the abnormal tissue.
- Uses: Typically employed when the goal is to confirm a diagnosis before deciding on a larger treatment plan.
2.
- Excisional Biopsy:
- Definition: The entire lesion or area of abnormal tissue is removed.
- Purpose: This biopsy is performed when the lesion is small enough or when complete removal is desired for both diagnostic and therapeutic reasons.
- Procedure: The surgeon removes the whole mass or abnormal area, along with some surrounding normal tissue to ensure that the entire abnormal area is excised.
- Uses: Commonly used for smaller lesions, such as suspicious moles, or when the entire lesion is intended for both diagnosis and treatment.
Key Differences:
- Size of Tissue Removed: Incisional removes a part, while excisional removes the whole lesion.
- Indication: Incisional is often done for large lesions, while excisional is typically used when the lesion is small or easily removed.
Both biopsies are important diagnostic tools, helping to guide further treatment.