What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
resection
Example
The surgeon performed a lung resection to remove the cancerous tissue. [resection: noun]
Example
The patient underwent a breast resection to remove the tumor. [resection: noun]
excision
Example
The dermatologist performed an excision to remove the mole on my face. [excision: noun]
Example
The surgeon excised the damaged part of the intestine. [excised: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Resection is more commonly used in medical contexts than excision. It is a widely used term in surgical procedures involving internal organs. Excision, on the other hand, is more commonly used in dermatology and plastic surgery.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between resection and excision?
Both resection and excision are formal medical terms used in the context of surgery. They are not commonly used in everyday language and are typically reserved for medical professionals and those discussing medical procedures.