Randomized in vitro and in vivo evaluation of different biopsy needles anddevices for breast biopsy

In an experimental study (in vitro and in vivo) we evaluated the efficacy o f various biopsy needles/devices for breast biopsy. In vitro, biopsies of f ive human cadaveric breast specimens were performed using 33 different need les/devices ranging from 14 to 20-gauge. Of these 33 needles/devices, 22 op timally performing needles were selected for the irt vivo study. In the cli nical part of the study, 44 breast lesions were randomly biopsied with each of the 22 needles/devices under stereotactic guidance. Tissue specimens we re analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. Several automatic long-throw guns (Acecut, Asap, Biopty, Magnum) obtained greater tissue areas and had a better histopathologic score than the conventional type of a side-notch ne edle like Trucut, an aspiration needle like Surecut, or an end-cut needle l ike Autovac, The automatic long-throw guns performed better than the short- throw Monopty gun. Regardless of needle size (14-20-gauge), breast biopsies should be routinely performed with automated long-throw side-notch guns (A cecut, Asap, Biopty, Magnum).