Imaging guided biopsies of renal masses.

Percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy can be used for the diagnosis of many abdominal masses. It is safe and accurate, and is often all that is necessary to determine treatment. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is both accurate and cost-effective, comparing favorably with open surgical biopsy. The use of percutaneous biopsy for the diagnosis of renal masses is now more commonplace as urologists and radiologists become familiar with its indications, contraindications, accuracy and complications.