An excision biopsy is also known as surgical biopsy and involves removing part or all of a breast growth, or lump, through an incision taken on the skin.

• Surgical biopsy of a palpable lump (lumpectomy)

The doctor makes 1-2 inches wide incision (about 2.5 to 5 cm) and removes the sample. If the lump is small, the doctor usually removes the entire lump for testing. If the lump is large, the doctor usually removes only a part of it for testing. The opening is closed with sutures.

• Surgical biopsy for a non-palpable lump

In this procedure, the growth is first located by mammography or other imaging studies and then ‘marked’. With the help of an imaging technique, the doctor inserts a needle that conveys a wire with a hook on the end into the breast. After the hooked wire is anchored to the lump, the doctor withdraws the needle and collects the samples. A dye may also be injected instead of using the hook.

Advantages of excision biopsy

• Accurate results.

Disadvantages of excision biopsy

• Increases the risk of complications like bleeding and infections.