ULTRASOUND-GUIDED SYNOVIAL BIOPSY OF THE WRIST

Seven patients (4 female and 3 male, mean age 46) with arthritis of th e wrist (n = 7) without known etiology were evaluated. High-definition ultrasound equipment was used for localization of synovial hypertroph y, suitable for ultrasound guided biopsy without risk. A 18-gauge diam eter Tru-cut biopsy needle was used in an automated gun. Two passes we re performed with continuous guidance of the needle-tip. In all patien ts representative synovial tissue was obtained in adequate amount. No complications were encountered. Ultrasound guided biopsy is proposed a s an effective technique which can be performed with low patient disco mfort on an outpatient basis.