CT-GUIDED BIOPSY OF LUNG LESIONS

CT is the most accurate method for guiding fine needle biopsies in dee p and/or small sized lung and mediastinic lesions. The authors have pe rformed 2109 CT-guided lung biopsies (FNAB). The results are given in terms of sensitivity, specificity and rate of complications. In every examination, Westcott or Chiba needles (22 or 21 gauge) were used. Fro m 2109 lung examinations performed, 1413 (66.99%) were positive, 538 ( 25.5%) negative, 15 (0.7%) suspicious and 143 (6.78%) inadequate for d iagnosis. 267 patients underwent surgical or clinical follow-up and, i n all cases, the cytological diagnosis was confirmed. Other considerat ions were made on lesion topography, histological type, dimensions, co mplication rate, sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy. CT, of course, is the best method for guiding fine needle biopsy of the l ung for its high spatial resolution and excellent anatomical definitio n, so that samples with smaller than 2 cm lesions, even in continuity with large vessels or other critical organs, are performed. Neverthele ss, the result quality depends on the ability of the operator.