A breast biopsy was performed, and the mass removed en bloc. This is considered what type of biopsy?

The removal of a mass en bloc during a breast biopsy is classified as an excisional biopsy. This type of biopsy involves the complete removal of a lesion or mass along with a margin of surrounding tissue, allowing for thorough examination of the pathology. It is often performed when there is a need to both diagnose and ensure complete removal of a suspicious breast mass, as it provides not only a sample for histological examination but also potential clearance of any abnormal tissue.

In contrast, a needle biopsy typically involves the use of a thin, hollow needle to remove a small amount of tissue, which does not allow for the removal of the entire mass. An incisional biopsy entails the surgical excision of a small portion of a larger mass for diagnostic purposes but does not remove the entire lesion. A core biopsy is similar to a needle biopsy but uses a wider needle to collect a larger cylindrical sample of tissue, again without complete removal of the lesion.

Therefore, the process of removing the mass en bloc is indicative of an excisional biopsy, as it focuses on complete excision, providing both diagnostic and potential therapeutic benefits.