Comparison of the diagnostic yield of 3 and 5 mm laparoscopic liver biopsy forceps in cats

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether 3 and 5 mm laparoscopic cup biopsy forceps provide samples of equivalent diagnostic quality in cats. Study design: Experimental study. Animals: Twelve colony cats undergoing a concurrent nutrition study. Methods: Two biopsy forceps (3 and 5 mm) and three biopsy techniques (twist, pull, and twist + pull) were used to collect 68 laparoscopic liver samples. Biopsies were performed consecutively with the 3 and 5 mm biopsy sites adjacent to each other. Data analyzed included the number of portal triads and hepatic lobules, tissue crush and fragmentation, overall sample area (mm2), sample weight, and agreement regarding morphologic diagnosis. Results: The 5 mm forceps provided more hepatic lobules, portal triads, and a larger tissue weight and histologic area (mm2) (p