An open biopsy is a surgical procedure in which a tissue sample is obtained through an incision to diagnose or evaluate a suspicious area in the body. Unlike needle biopsies, which involve minimal invasiveness, an open biopsy requires making a larger cut in the skin to directly access and remove a portion of the abnormal tissue or mass. The excised tissue is then sent to a laboratory for histological examination, where it is analyzed for abnormalities, such as cancer, infections, or inflammatory conditions. The primary reasons for performing an open biopsy include diagnosing lumps, tumors, or lesions that are inaccessible or too large for a needle biopsy. It is often used when other biopsy techniques do not provide sufficient information or when a larger tissue sample is needed for an accurate diagnosis. Open biopsy is commonly used for diagnosing cancers in organs such as the breast, lungs, or lymph nodes, as well as for investigating unexplained symptoms like persistent swelling or pain. Complications of an open biopsy are more significant compared to less invasive techniques and can include infection at the incision site, bleeding, or scarring. There is also a risk of anesthesia-related complications, as this procedure often requires local or general anesthesia. Additionally, some patients may experience pain or discomfort after the biopsy, and healing time can be longer compared to needle-based biopsies. Despite these risks, open biopsy remains a vital tool for obtaining definitive diagnoses when other methods are insufficient, providing crucial insights for proper treatment and management.
