Pleural biopsy. A report of 750 biopsies performed using Abrams's pleural biopsy punch

We present the results of 750 consecutive pleural biopsies performed with the Abrams pleural biopsy punch to indicate the effectiveness, safety and ease of the procedure. The biopsies were performed by 27 members of our medical staff. Pleural tissue was obtained in 90% of the biopsy specimens taken from patients with pleural effusions and in 79% of those taken in the absence of pleural fluid. These 'dry' biopsies were restricted to those operators with a minimum experience of 50 previous biopsies. Inclusion of tissue other than pleura occurred more frequently in the 'dry' biopsies (16.6%) than in those with pleural fluid (0.8%). There were no complications which required intervention. The problem of 'idiopathic' pleural disease is discussed. We emphasize the biopsy technique and the need for a constant and interested histologist.