"She proceeded to perform a punch biopsy — using a sharp hole punch ... the most common form of tongue cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. This type originates from the flat, squamous cells ...

The punch biopsy technique is the most frequently used ... the dermis side down onto a piece of cardboard or a piece of a tongue depressor. This will prevent the tissue from curling when it ...

Traditionally, punch biopsy sites have been sutured, but the benefit of this practice has never been scientifically demonstrated. In this prospective, randomized, method-comparison study ...

examined her tongue, and immediately said, “We need to do a biopsy.” Riehle asked, “When?” and the doctor responded, “Right now.” "That was the moment I knew I was sick," Riehle tells PEOPLE ...