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J Am Dent Assoc, Vol 138, No 7, 957-962. © 2007 American Dental Association

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The traditional method versus the use of a new pressure forceps

Background. The authors designed a pressure forceps, called the "B forceps," for use in performing biopsies. They compared biopsy specimens taken with and without the aid of the B forceps from buccal mucosa of 84 patients divided equally into two groups, all of whom satisfied the World Health Organization’s diagnostic criteria for oral lichen planus. They analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of using this instrument.

Materials and Methods. The 42 patients in group A underwent a conventional biopsy (29 with a scalpel and 13 with a punch). The 42 patients in group B underwent a biopsy performed with the B forceps and a punch. The authors studied artifacts of fragmentation, pseudocysts, crushing, fissures and hemorrhages histologically in both groups.

Results. There were no significant differences within group A between the subjects who had undergone either the scalpel or the punch biopsy. There were, however, significant differences between groups A and B. Group B experienced less fragmentation (P = .021), fewer fissures (P = .001) and fewer hemorrhages (P = .001).

Conclusions. The new B forceps was a useful aid in the performance of biopsies. It improved visibility and reduced the time needed for the procedure. Biopsy specimens taken with the B forceps also had histologically fewer artifacts than did those taken without the B forceps.

Clinical Implications. This technique using the B forceps has several advantages, including speed, because the ischemia produced by the clamp stabilizes the tissue and increases visibility, facilitating dissection. The time needed for surgical removal thus is shortened.

Key Words: Oral lichen planus; biopsy; buccal mucosa; pressure forceps

Abbreviations: LP: Lichen planus • OLP: Oral lichen planus • WHO: World Health Organization