Intra-operative use of the loop diathermy for liver biopsies during gynecologic surgery

This paper presents a technique for liver biopsy using loop diathermy. Six patients who were explored in the last year for gynecologic conditions were found to require liver biopsy intra-operatively. In view of the excellent results and the experience acquired in the use of the loop diathermy for cervical biopsies and the caveats of carrying out liver biopsies, we explored the possibility of performing intra-operative liver biopsies using the loop. The diameter of the biopsies ranged from 10 to 20 mm, the mean time for the procedure was less than one minute, and no complications were observed. We found this technique to be simple, quick, and economical, as well as providing good histologic specimens without morbidity.