Basic Eyelid Biopsy

This is Richard Allen at the University of Iowa.  This video demonstrates a basic eyelid biopsy.  The patient has a cystic appearing lesion of the lateral upper lid.  Using Westcott scissors and toothed forceps, the lesion is excised.  A 15 blade could be used if preferred.  There is some disadvantage to using scissors since they may induce crush artifact.  I believe that all eyelid lesions should be inspected by the pathologist.  Hemostasis can be attained with bipolar or thermal cautery.  Antibiotic ointment can then be placed over the defect.  These anterior lamellar defects granulate nicely.  No suture repair is necessary.