Endomyocardial biopsy: a review of its current role and usefulness.

Abstract

Endomyocardial biopsy via transvascular technique is safe. It shows a wide range of clinical applications. The fresh endomyocardial tissue thus obtained is very helpful for further research in the field of cardiac pathology. It facilitates almost all sophisticated techniques that need fresh and viable cells. Results of the study are relevant and mostly clinically useful. However, application of this technique to the study of heart diseases in Thai people is still limited. This may be partly due to excessive patient fear according to the general belief that the heart is the utmost important part of life. Other possible explanations include the doubt about the safety of this procedure and the benefit that they will receive. Then, any misunderstanding should be corrected and this technique should be encouraged when clinically indicated.