wedge biopsy
Surgical removal of a small, triangular portion of lung tissue for diagnostic purposes while preserving lung function.
Full Definition
A wedge biopsy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of a small, wedge-shaped piece of lung tissue that includes both normal and abnormal areas. Unlike wedge resection performed for therapeutic purposes, wedge biopsy is primarily diagnostic, aimed at obtaining adequate tissue for histopathological and molecular analysis when less invasive methods have failed or are inadequate. The procedure can be performed via thoracotomy or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). Wedge biopsy allows for comprehensive tissue evaluation while minimizing the amount of lung tissue removed, making it particularly useful for patients with diffuse lung disease or when larger resections pose excessive risk.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from therapeutic wedge resection; primarily diagnostic procedure.
In Context
- "VATS wedge biopsy was performed to establish diagnosis in the patient with diffuse pulmonary nodules." — Operative report
- "The wedge biopsy provided adequate tissue for molecular profiling and histologic diagnosis." — Pathology report