title: Freehand two-step CT-guided brain tumor biopsy: a fast and effective interventional procedure in selected patients.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of CT-guided needle biopsy of brain lesions without a stereotactic device, and to determine the best possible indications for this technique.
  
  
  METHODS
  From February 2001 to February 2004, 20 patients (12 men, 8 women; age 61-82 years) underwent CT-guided brain lesion biopsy. The procedure started with a brain CT scan for lesion localization and for selection of the inlet for needle insertion. The patient was then transported to the operating room where cranioanatrisis was performed. Subsequently, the biopsy was performed under CT guidance using a 14G brain biopsy needle with a blind smooth end and lateral holes. At the end of the biopsy, the field was checked for possible complications with a CT scan.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Histopathologic results were: brain tumor in 16 patients (80%), inflammatory process in 3 (15%), and no conclusive diagnosis in 1 (5%). A repeat of the process was required in 2 patients. A minor complication of local hematoma was found in 1 patient (5%). There were no deaths or other serious complications.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  CT-guided biopsy is a reliable method for histopathologic diagnosis of brain lesions in selected cases. It is a simple, fast, effective, low-cost procedure with minimal complications, indicated especially for superficial and large tumors.
authors.affiliation: Radiology Department, Korgialeneio-Benakeio, Hellenic Red-Cross Hospital of Athens, Athanasaki 1 st, 11526, Athens, Greece. loutharad@yahoo.com
authors.forename: Loukas
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Thanos
authors.forename: Sofia
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mylona
authors.forename: Panagiota
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Galani
authors.forename: Vasilios
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Kalioras
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Pomoni
authors.forename: Nikolaos
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Batakis
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001707:Biopsy, Needle; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015641:Radiography, Interventional; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed