Muscle biopsy: proper surgical technique.

Muscle biopsy is often incorrectly performed despite the fact that it is a relatively simple procedure. A consistently reproducible surgical technique in 93 open vastus lateralis muscle biopsies implemented in conjunction with neuromuscular and malignant hyperthermia research demonstrated 14 cases of malignant hyperthermia and a variety of forms of neuromuscular pathology. No wound complications or disabilities have resulted from this procedure. The procedure includes careful selection of biopsy site, regional anesthesia, atraumatic dissection, and immediate processing of the biopsy sample. A new muscle biopsy clamp is described. The authors recommend the vastus lateralis for the biopsy site unless another area of involvement is specifically indicated. Careful attention to technical details is required for optimal results.