BIOPSY

A biopsy is a procedure to remove a
sample of tumor tissue. A pathologist then
microscopically examines the sample to
determine the exact type of tumor. The tissue
may also be analyzed for its chromosomal
makeup and other chemical (“molecular”)
characteristics.
A biopsy may be performed for the sole purpose
of obtaining a tissue sample. It may also be done
as part of the surgery to remove the tumor.
There are three types of biopsy:
• Needle biopsy. After a small incision is
made and a hole is drilled into the skull, a
hollow needle is passed through the hole
into the tumor. A small amount of tissue is
drawn up into the hollow part of the needle
for examination.
• Stereotactic biopsy. The same procedure
as a needle biopsy but performed with a
computer-assisted guidance system that aids
in the location and diagnosis of the tumor.
• Open biopsy. The tissue sample is taken during
an operation while the tumor is exposed.