Gantry angulation in CT-guided percutaneous adrenal biopsy.

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed to test a new method for CT-guided adrenal biopsy using angulation of the CT gantry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In 23 patients, 26 biopsies were performed on patients in the prone position using CT gantry angulation and the introduction of the biopsy needles along the same angle, guided by the gantry locating light. The use of angulation ensured a safe needle path that avoided vital structures, such as the pleura, while monitoring of the needle course and its tip on one or two CT slices.

RESULTS

Twenty-two of 23 adrenal masses (96%) were successfully biopsied without complications. Fifteen (65%) of the target masses were 1.5 cm or smaller.

CONCLUSION

Using an angled gantry during percutaneous biopsy is a safe and preferred method over other techniques for biopsy of adrenal masses and can be used easily for small adrenal masses.