What exactly is a biopsy, and why might a Specialist Plastic Surgeon choose one type of biopsy over another when investigating skin cancer?
In this episode of the Cutting Edge Plastic Surgery Podcast, Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr Adam Greenbaum explains the role of biopsy in diagnosing and planning treatment for skin cancer.
Dr Greenbaum discusses the important difference between a punch biopsy, where a representative sample of tissue is taken, and an excision biopsy, where the entire skin lesion is removed for examination by a pathologist.
Using the analogy of taking an apple core or a soil sample, he explains why sampling can sometimes provide enough information to guide treatment – but also why, in other situations, examining the entire lesion is important.
During the discussion, Dr Greenbaum covers:
- What a biopsy actually is
- The difference between punch and excision biopsies
- Why a punch biopsy samples only part of a skin lesion
- When taking a biopsy may help avoid unnecessary extensive surgery
- How biopsy results can influence the margins used during surgery
- Biopsy considerations for basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
- Biopsy considerations for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
- Why suspected melanoma is approached differently
- Minimal-margin excision biopsy for suspected melanoma
- Why the depth of a melanoma influences subsequent treatment
- The importance of obtaining an accurate diagnosis before planning surgery
The appropriate biopsy technique depends on the individual skin lesion, its location, the suspected diagnosis and other clinical factors. This episode explains why biopsy is not simply about determining whether something is cancer – it can also provide information that helps guide the next stage of treatment.
Dr Adam Greenbaum is a UK-trained Specialist Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon with more than 20 years of consultant experience. He graduated from St Bartholomew’s Hospital Medical School in London before completing specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery training in the United Kingdom. He also holds a PhD and was awarded a Hunterian Professorship by the Royal College of Surgeons of England in recognition of his research. Dr Greenbaum is registered as a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon with the Medical Council of New Zealand and is a member of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). His practice focuses on skin cancer surgery, breast surgery, body contouring, hand surgery, facial rejuvenation and reconstructive plastic surgery. He remains actively involved in clinical research, surgical education and evidence-based practice to ensure his patients benefit from the latest advances in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered personalised medical advice. The appropriate investigation and treatment of a skin lesion depends on individual clinical circumstances. If you are concerned about a skin lesion or changes to your skin, please consult your GP or an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
