[Percutaneous transthoracic fine-needle biopsy of the lung. Indications, results and complications in 578 punctures].

578 fine-needle biopsies of lung lesions in 319 patients were performed. This investigation was mainly done by means of Rotex-biopsy instruments. The procedure proved to be efficient in 84%, complicated in 19,7% of the patients. Major complications were seen in 5,6% only. Percutaneous needle biopsy in appropriate for obtaining a cytological diagnosis to clarify the etiology of localized lung lesions.