A simple technique for wedge biopsy of the liver during laparoscopic surgery

A simple technique for wedge biopsy of the liver, which can be performed concomitantly with laparoscopic surgery, is described in this paper. For this technique, the edge of the liver is clamped with two standard laparoscopic bowel graspers at an approximately 90-degree angle to create a wedge of hepatic tissue for biopsy. A pair of endoscopic scissors is used to excise the specimen between the graspers. The cutting surface of the liver is then coagulated with a monopolar device. This technique is rapid, safe and inexpensive, and requires no specific instruments and/or devices.