A surgical biopsy is a medical procedure used to remove a sample of tissue from the body for examination. This sample helps doctors diagnose diseases, such as cancer, by allowing pathologists to analyze the cells under a microscope. The procedure can be performed using different techniques, including excisional biopsy, where an entire lump is removed, or incisional biopsy, where only a portion of the tissue is taken.
The biopsy is typically done in a hospital or outpatient setting, often under local or general anesthesia. After the tissue is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for testing. Results from a surgical biopsy can provide crucial information for determining the best treatment options for the patient.