Category
Dermatology Procedural
Typical Use
Obtain full thickness skin samples for histologic diagnosis.
Description
A circular, sharp, hollow instrument that cores a cylindrical sample of epidermis and dermis for histopathologic evaluation of skin lesions, rashes, and suspected malignancies, available in various diameters to match lesion size and diagnostic needs. Punch biopsy technique involves local anesthesia, perpendicular sampling to include lesion margins, and layered closure or secondary intention healing depending on defect size; specimen orientation and fixation are important for accurate pathology interpretation. Complications such as bleeding, infection, and scarring are minimized by proper technique, hemostasis, and wound care instructions for the patient.