CT-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy of spinal lesions

Purpose: A retrospective study of CT-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsies (FNABs) of spinal lesions performed over a period of 6 years was carried out with the aim of assessing the safety and efficacy of the procedure and to analyse the various approaches used. Materials and Methods: Ninety-three FNABs were performed in 87 patients, 4-70 years of age, under CT guidance. Lytic or mixed vertebral lesions with or without a paraspinal soft tissue component were included in the study. The approach depended on the anatomic region and part of the vertebra involved. Results: A definite cytological diagnosis was obtained in 77 patients (88.5%); of these, 47 patients had benign lesions and 30 patients had neoplasms. The most common pathologies encountered were tuberculosis (n=33) and metastases (n=17). There were 10 inconclusive FNABs; these showed blood only, necrotic material or scanty material insufficient for diagnosis. There were no procedure-related complications. Conclusion: CT-guided FNAB is a safe and effective technique for the evaluation of spinal lesions and is helpful in planning therapy. Choosing the appropriate approach results in a low complication rate.