title: How I do it. In a pinch.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Punch biopsy is a standard method for obtaining tissue sample in dermatology.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The objective is to convey the use of towel clips when forceps are not available in performing a punch biopsy.
  
  
  METHODS
  After informed consent, a punch biopsy was performed when clinically indicated, using towel clips in place of forceps to aid in removal of the specimen from the patient.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The biopsy sample was satisfactory without tissue trauma or crush artifact.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A towel clip is a reasonable alternative when forceps are not available when performing a punch biopsy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. richard.krathen@sbcglobal.net
authors.forename: Richard A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Krathen
authors.forename: Ida F
authors.initials: IF
authors.lastname: Orengo
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D013523:Surgical Equipment