I am asking this question on behalf of a colleague.  Responses may be sent
to TheisenK@centracare.com.

We are considering adding this statement to our Surgical Consent Form:

All specimens, including tissue, foreign bodies, and prosthetics, delivered
to the histology/pathology department will undergo, at a minimum, a gross
examination.  The pathologist will perform microscopic exam of specimens if
requested or deemed necessary.  Specimens and explanted prosthetic devices
are retained for one month after the pathology report has been generated or
returned to the patient upon request within that time period.  Thereafter
if the patient or doctor has not requested their return or extended
storage, the explanted devices will be discarded.

Should we proceed or should we just address retention practices in our
department pol