Yield Of Ultrasound Guided Tru-Cut Biopsy Of Peripheral Thoracic Masses By Pulmonologists

Abstract

Background: Biopsy of peripheral thoracic masses can be performed percutaneously. This usually requires computed tomography guidance and is performed by radiologists. Ultrasound can visualize peripheral masses and it can be used as guidance modality for percutaneous biopsy with real time visualization.

Objective: To determine yield and safety of percutaneous Tru-Cut biopsy of peripherally located thoracic masses performed under ultrasound guidance by pulmonologists.

Materials and methods: During study period n=42 consecutive patients with thoracic masses abutting the chest wall were enrolled. 20 (47.62%) were male and 22 (52.38%) were female with mean age of 40.45 years. 28 (66.67%) patients had mass originating from lungs, 12 (28.57%) had from anterior mediastinum and 2 (4.76%) had pleural based mass. Average size of mass was more than 4 cm. 16 gauge semiautomatic Tru-Cut biopsy needle was used for all patients.

Results: Histological diagnosis was obtained in 38 (90.47%) patients. Inconclusive report was seen in 4 (9.52%) patients. Complication occurred only in 1 (2.38%) patient and that was pneumothorax, requiring chest tube placement.

Conclusion: Percutaneous Tru-Cut biopsy performed under ultrasound guidance by pulmonologists is a safe procedure and carries good yield and safety.