Tumors in the mediastinum: US-guided histologic core-needle biopsy.

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical utility of ultrasound (US)-guided core-needle biopsy (CNB) of the mediastinum performed with a one-hand automatic-sampling technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diagnostic or pathologic findings of US-guided CNBs performed with 14- or 18-gauge needles in 62 biopsies of mediastinal lesions were reviewed.

RESULTS

An average of 2.4 punctures were performed at each biopsy session. A specimen sufficient for diagnosis was obtained in 52 of 62 biopsies (84%). There were no serious complications.

CONCLUSION

When a mediastinal tumor is visible at US, US-guided CNB of the mediastinum is an accurate and safe technique. The method is a simple and cost-effective alternative to more invasive techniques such as mediastinoscopy or open diagnostic surgery.