Comparison of the Menghini, Klatskin and Tru-Cut needles in diagnosing cirrhosis.

The Menghini, Klatskin and Tru-cut needles were used to obtain multiple biopsies from cirrhotic livers at autopsy. Comparison of specimens showed that Tru-Cut biopsies were the longest and least fragmented, produced the greatest diagnostic accuracy and fewest false negative diagnoses of cirrhosis. Pending further evaluation of its safety, the Tru-Cut needle seems the instrument of choice for the biopsy diagnosis of cirrhosis.