Computed tomographic guided liver biopsy using the Menghini needle.

CT guided biopsies of the liver using the Menghini needle were performed in 42 patients. The recovery of diagnostic tissue was successful in 86% of focal lesions. Advantages over the blind liver technique include better recovery of diagnostic specimens, while advantages over the ultrasonic guided techniques include greater amount of tissue obtained and better occuracy in guidance. This technique is indicated in those patients with a small number of focal defects in the liver in whom a diagnostic histologic specimen is desired.