What type of surgery is primarily focused on diagnosis rather than treatment?

The choice of diagnostic surgery is centered on obtaining tissue samples or visualizing the interior of the body to confirm a diagnosis rather than to treat an existing condition. This type of procedure allows healthcare professionals to gather essential information about a patient's health status. For instance, a biopsy is a common type of diagnostic surgery where a small sample of tissue is removed for laboratory analysis to determine the presence of disease, such as cancer.

In contrast, curative surgery is aimed at resolving a disease or condition by removing or repairing affected tissues. Palliative surgery is focused on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses, often without the intention of curing the disease. Reconstructive surgery aims to restore the appearance or function of body parts affected by injury, illness, or congenital disabilities. Thus, while all other surgical types aim to address a specific health issue directly, diagnostic surgery’s primary goal is to investigate and ascertain a diagnosis.