Excisions are small surgeries to remove a lesion, or problematic tissue, from the body.
Biopsies are small surgeries where samples of the tissue are removed for laboratory diagnosis.
Excisions are
a common practice for eliminating lesions from your skin by completely cutting
them out. They are regularly used to remove an undesirable or potentially
harmful lesion. Lesions that pose a threat include basal cell carcinoma,
squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma. However, an excision can also be
implemented to eliminate a benign (non-cancerous) lesion for aesthetic purposes
or to alleviate irritation.
When an
excision is used to take a tissue sample for lab analysis, it is frequently
referred to as a biopsy. Unlike an excision, a biopsy will not result in the
full removal of the lesion. Rather, the sample is used for diagnostic purposes
before full treatment is administered.
Common
lesions that may require a biopsy for diagnosis include:
Moles
Warts
Cysts
Actinic keratosis
Skin cancers
Skin infections
Skin tags
Bullous pemphigoid
Inflammatory skin conditions like
dermatitis and psoriasis
What to expect
Excisions and
biopsies may utilize local anesthesia to reduce discomfort during the
procedure. While excisions and biopsies are important procedures, in most cases
the patient can return home immediately following their visit. Your Metrolina
provider will provide post-care guidance on how to best care for your procedure
site during the healing process.
After your
procedure, your tissue sample is sent to a pathology lab for microscopic
analysis. The lab is fully accredited by the College of American Pathologists,
ensuring it upholds the highest standards for quality and accuracy. The lab
will analyze the sample, and your care team will follow-up promptly with next
steps.
EXCISIONS & BIOPSIES CAN HELP WITH THESE CONDITIONS:
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