Open abdomen liver biopsy by a modified one-second technic.

With the purpose of facilitating liver biopsy during upper abdominal procedures, an adaptation of the percutaneous one-second needle biopsy technic is proposed. A simple device, consisting of a three-way deviator, allows the utilization of the standard needles for percutaneous biopsy. The entire procedure requires from 10 to 30 seonds. Large caliber needles from 1.6 to 2.0 mm are recommended. Complications are practically nonexistent.