Simple modification to the punch biopsy technique to minimize handling and crush artefact

A number of techniques have been described to retrieve the tissue core after punch biopsy. We describe a simple modification to the punch-biopsy technique that minimizes instrumentation, handling and the subsequent risk of crush artefact. Our technique is simple, quick and economical and essentially involves rotation of the punch through 90 degrees then lateral extraction with a degree of upward traction, which usually leaves the tissue core deposited beside the skin defect. At this point it can be easily grasped with a square of gauze or detached if required using scissors or a scalpel blade.