Percutaneous needle biopsy of skeletal muscle in childhood

The results of needle biopsies of skeletal muscle in 95 infants (age-range 2/12--17 1/12 year) are presented. The biopsies were carried out using the Vondra-needle. In all but one case an amount of material was obtained which was sufficient for histopathological examination. The needle biopsy technique has the advantage that it can be performed by the paediatrician in the outpatient department. In our experience the procedure entails no risk.