The removal of cells or tissues for examination by a pathologist. The pathologist may study the tissue under a microscope or perform other tests on the cells or tissue. There are many different types of biopsy procedures. The most common types include (1) incisional biopsy, in which only a sample of tissue is removed; (2) excisional biopsy, in which an entire lump or suspicious area is removed; and (3) needle biopsy, in which a sample of tissue or fluid is removed with a needle. When a wide needle is used, the procedure is called a core biopsy. When a thin needle is used, the procedure is called a fine-needle aspiration biopsy.
There are several different types of biopsies. A needle biopsy is done using local anesthesia. There are two types. Fine needle aspiration uses a small needle attached to a syringe. Very small amounts of tissue cells are removed. Core biopsy removes slivers of tissue using a hollow needle attached to a spring-loaded device.