Overview

Shave Biopsy is a diagnostic procedure using a blade to remove the superficial portion of a skin lesion for microscopic examination.

Shave biopsy is crucial for diagnosing superficial skin conditions, providing quick results, and minimal scarring.

Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx Dermatology Course

Indications

✓
Superficial Lesions

Seborrheic keratoses

✓
Pigmented Lesions

Moles, freckles

✓
Skin Tags

Benign growths

✓
Warts

Viral warts

✓
Superficial Cancers

Basal cell carcinoma

Contraindications

Absolute Contraindications

✗ Patient refusal
✗ Deep lesions

Relative Contraindications

✗ Bleeding disorders
✗ Anticoagulation therapy

📋 Equipment Checklist

Check off items as you gather them:

Pre-procedure Preparation

Preparation includes patient assessment, lesion evaluation, informed consent, and understanding shave biopsy techniques.

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Lesion Assessment

Evaluate lesion characteristics.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Wrong diagnosis
  • Deep lesion

💡 Pro Tip:

Confirm superficial nature.

Step 2: Anesthesia

Administer local anesthesia.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Inadequate anesthesia
  • Wrong technique

💡 Pro Tip:

Ensure complete numbness.

Step 3: Shave Technique

Perform shave biopsy.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Too deep
  • Too shallow

💡 Pro Tip:

Use proper technique.

Step 4: Hemostasis

Control bleeding.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Excessive bleeding
  • Poor hemostasis

💡 Pro Tip:

Use pressure or cautery.

Step 5: Specimen Handling

Preserve specimen properly.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:

  • Poor preservation
  • Wrong container

💡 Pro Tip:

Use appropriate fixative.

Master Shave with RxDx

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Post-procedure Care

Post-procedure care involves wound care, monitoring for complications, and follow-up for pathology results.

Complications & Management

Complication Incidence Signs Management Prevention
Bleeding 5-10% Excessive bleeding Pressure, cautery Proper technique
Infection 2-5% Redness, pain, discharge Antibiotics Sterile technique
Scarring 5-15% Visible scar Time, scar care Proper technique
Inadequate sample 3-8% Insufficient tissue Repeat biopsy Proper technique

Clinical Pearls

💡

Always confirm lesion is superficial before shaving.

🎯

Use appropriate blade angle.

⚡

Ensure adequate specimen depth.

🔍

Handle specimen carefully to avoid artifacts.

📊

Document biopsy site and technique.

🎨

Consider cosmetic outcome.

⚠️

Monitor for complications.