Transthoracic needle biopsy for suspected thoracic malignancy in elderly patients using CT guidance

doi:10.1016/S0009-9260(98)80057-3

Clinical Radiology

Volume 53, Issue 2, February 1998, Pages 116-119

https://doi.org/10.1016/S0009-9260(98)80057-3 Get rights and content

There are few reports of transthoracic needle biopsy (TNB) in elderly (>70 years) patients although there is some evidence that age may be a risk factor in developing pneumothorax. We report our experience of 38 patients, age range 70–90 years, who underwent computed tomography (CT)-guided TNB for suspected malignancy of the chest, with particular reference to sensitivity and complication rate following the procedure. The biopsy was obtained using either a spinal needle or, if appropriate, a core of tissue was obtained using a cutting needle.

The biopsy showed evidence of malignancy in 27 patients. Pneumothorax occurred in 10 of 40 biopsies. Two patients with pneumothorax required pleural drains; one was discharged the following day and the other required drainage for 3 days. Haemoptysis was not a problem but occurred as a transient postbiopsy event in three patients.

In 26 of 40 (65%) episodes the patients were sent home within 24h of the diagnostic procedure. It is thus quite possible to undertake the procedure on a day case basis. CT-guided TNB is a safe and reliable procedure in elderly patients with suspected chest malignancy and is well tolerated.

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Transthoracic needle biopsy for suspected thoracic malignancy in elderly patients using CT guidance

Clinics in Chest Medicine

Radiologic Clinics of North America

Radiologic Clinics of North America

Chest

Chest

Chest

Percutaneous thoracic needle aspiration: a review

American Journal of Roentgenology