Muscle Biopsy
Muscle biopsy for neurodegenerative and metabolic studies are processed by the Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory Service (VNLS) which is located within the Anatomical Pathology Department of Alfred Pathology Service at Alfred Health.
Clinicians Please Note: VNLS must receive samples before 4.00pm Monday to Friday to enable optimal handling and processing to occur. Please ensure you allow sufficient transport time when scheduling the time of biopsy.
Requests and Reports
A request form must accompany the specimen. The request form must contain full details (full name, address, contact number) of the requesting doctor and who should receive a copy of the report, including the name of the treating neurologist.
VNLS is a statewide referral service with a broad clinician referral base. Please provide clear and precise details so reports can be directed to the appropriate people.
Specimen Collection
Correct handling of a muscle biopsy is important for accurate interpretation of the specimen.
One (1) fresh specimen of muscle is required.
1) A single 20 x 10 x 10 mm rectangular piece of muscle is collected from the patient and placed in a dry sterile container (yellow lid).
2) Place this specimen in an Esky with ice cubes and dispatch to the VNLS immediately.
3) Please deliver the specimen before 4pm.
Please:
• DO NOT Freeze the specimen.
• DO NOT Immerse the specimen in any fluid.
• DO NOT use any Diathermy instrument on the muscle specimen.
• DO NOT Infuse the muscle with local anaesthetic.
Specimen Dispatch
Deliver the muscle biopsies and completed paperwork to:
Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory Service
Alfred Pathology Service Central Specimen Processing
Ground Floor, Main Ward Block
The Alfred
55 Commercial Rd
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory Service– General Information
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Director:
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Professor Catriona McLean
Phone: +61 3 907 63153
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Laboratory Contact:
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Paul Kennedy - Senior Scientist
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Laboratory Phone:
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+61 3 907 65448
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Laboratory Fax:
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+61 3 907 62899
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Email:
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p.kennedy@alfred.org.au
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Courier Address:
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Victorian Neuromuscular Laboratory Service
Alfred Pathology Service Central Specimen Processing
Ground Floor, Main Ward Block
The Alfred
55 Commercial Road,
Melbourne VIC 3004
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