1. A device for tissue characterization, comprising: a structure, formed of a rigid surface configured as a truncated cone, having a first cross-sectional configuration defining a diameter and having a second cross-sectional configuration defining an axis; a first mechanism, associated with the structure, configured for causing a force to be exerted on a tissue, in a direction, along the axis, at an acute angle α to the rigid surface, for fixing the tissue to the structure, so as to substantially immobilize the tissue; and a second mechanism, associated with the structure, configured for pressing at least one piston sensor against an external surface of the immobilized tissue, thereby exerting a counter force on the immobilized tissue, wherein at least a component of the force is in opposition to at least a component of the counter force, forcing the immobilized tissue against the at least one piston sensor, and forcing the at least one piston sensor against the immobilized tissue, bringing about an effective contact between the at least one piston sensor and the immobilized tissue.