title: The emerging role of percutaneous biopsy in diagnosis and management of small renal masses.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Percutaneous biopsy has an emerging role in the diagnosis and management of small renal masses. The increasing importance of percutaneous biopsy is related to both a better understanding of the natural history of these tumors as well as new developments in treatment strategies.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We discuss the emerging role of biopsy in the current practice setting. Additionally, we review recent data regarding its diagnostic accuracy, important technical considerations, and possible complications. Finally, we speculate on its future role in managing these patients.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The role of percutaneous renal biopsy in the management of small renal masses continues to evolve. It is critically important at this juncture to evaluate the benefits and shortcomings of such an approach.
authors.affiliation: Division of Urologic Oncology, Princess Margaret Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Stanley A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Yap
authors.forename: Oleksandr
authors.initials: O
authors.lastname: Stakhovskyi
authors.forename: Antonio
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Finelli
mesh_terms: D001707:Biopsy, Needle / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D019468:Disease Management; D006801:Humans; D007668:Kidney / Q000473:pathology*; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D007680:Kidney Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology