excision

Definition of surgical excision
National Cancer Institute

surgical excision

(SER-jih-kul ek-SIH-zhun)
The removal of tissue from the body using a scalpel (a sharp knife), laser, or other cutting tool. A surgical excision is usually done to remove a lump or other suspicious growth. Some normal tissue around the lump is usually removed at the same time.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms