Comprehensive approach to CT-guided procedures with a hand-held guidance device.

A technically successful biopsy or drainage procedure performed with computed tomographic (CT) guidance depends on two essential elements: determination of the correct entry point on the patient and placement of the biopsy needle or trocar drainage catheter along a predetermined track. A hand-held guidance device was used in conjunction with the lighting system on the CT scanner and measurements obtained from CT images to achieve this goal in 40 patients. The approach minimized trauma to the patient and decreased the time required for CT.