THE RAZOR BLADE BIOPSY TECHNIQUE - INTRODUCTION OF THE ADAPTER-DESIGNED SHAVE BIOPSY INSTRUMENT

BACKGROUND. Several years ago, the razor blade was introduced as an al ternative device for performing the shave removal and/or biopsy of ski n lesions. Though inexpensive and readily available, the razor blade i s somewhat cumbersome to use and poses a risk for accidental injury to the practitioner. OBJECTIVE. We describe a modification of the razor blade shave biopsy procedure utilizing an innovative adaptor design. M ETHODS. A comparison of the adaptor-designed shave biopsy instrument t o the standard razor blade device is made. RESULTS. The modifications implemented in the adaptor design serve to enhance the comfort of perf orming biopsies, minimize accidental injury, help save time, and provi de for a more professional appearing way in which to obtain skin speci mens. CONCLUSION. The new adaptor design helps to facilitate the safe and effective use of the razor blade in dermatologic practice.