[Computerized tomography-guided needle biopsy for the diagnosis of pulmonary nodules: analysis of a series of 41 patients].

This study was aimed at assessing percutaneous biopsy under computerized tomography (CT) guidance, its results in terms of diagnostic value, factors contributing to its complications or success, and its indications. Results obtained from a series of 41 patients and data from previous clinical trials were compared. Patients who were not eligible due to either poor physical condition or a tumor that could not be reached were not included into the study. Various factors, ie, the tumor location, the size of the lesion, the distance between the lesion and the thoracic wall, and the type (histological and/or cytological) of samples, were analyzed. Results were evaluated according to the disease evolution or pathological findings. Tumoral cells were found in 23 samples. Eighteen samples were negative for malignancy, with eight benign lesions and ten false negative. Complications that occurred just after the biopsy were recorded. Failures and complication factors were analyzed and compared to those already described. CT-guided needle biopsy is an admitted alternative to thoracotomy, even for small nodules deeply located. The use of this technique should be discussed when fiberoptic endoscopy leads to negative results. Various tumors cannot be reached using CT-guided needle biopsy and this technique is more efficacious for bulky nodules. The thickness of lung parenchyma passed through does not seem to change the risk of pneumothorax. The use of laser guidance might help locate the tumor with more accuracy.