Needle tract recurrences after closed biopsy for sarcoma: three cases and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Percutaneous closed needle biopsy of musculoskeletal neoplasms has gained in popularity. However, it remains controversial whether or not to resect the needle tract for fear of a local recurrence. A single published case report exists, noting the lone tract recurrence of an extremity skeletal osteosarcoma.


METHODS
We report on three additional individuals who demonstrated that tract local recurrences may occur after a closed needle biopsy for nonosteosarcoma, nonextremity sarcomas. For perspective, the world literature is reviewed to identify tract recurrences for other malignancies and the results of needle biopsy in musculoskeletal neoplasms.


RESULTS
Eighty-nine percent of needle tract local recurrences occur when carcinomas are subjected to biopsy, as reported in the literature. Forty-seven cases since 1950 are described representing essentially all tumor types. The nature of musculoskeletal neoplasms makes closed biopsy more difficult than for softer, more homogeneous, and easier to access neoplasms.


CONCLUSIONS
Local recurrences of sarcoma may occur in closed needle biopsy tracts. Strong consideration should be given to open biopsy and tract resection.
Schwartz
H S
HS
Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennesse 37232-2550, USA.
Spengler
D M
DM
D000328:Adult; D001707:Biopsy, Needle / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D001859:Bone Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D012509:Sarcoma / Q000473:pathology*; D012983:Soft Tissue Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology