[The value and use of percutaneous trans-thoracic needle biopsy in the diagnosis of intra-thoracic disease. Technique, indications, results and complications].

Between 1961 and 1974, 5,300 percutaneous, trans-thoracic needle biopsies under image intensifier control were carried out in the Karolinska Sjukhuset, Stockholm. These involved, 2,726 patients with localised intrathoracic disease. The indications, results and complications are discussed. Approximately 15% of cases were suspected of malignancy and showed peripheral infiltrates varying from 0.04 to 2 cm. diameter. Needle biopsy proved to be technically simple and relatively safe; it permits early diagnosis of bronchial carcinomas and solitary metastases with a high degree of accuracy and with few complications. It is assumed that, as a result, the prognosis in a large group of patients with bronchial carcinomas in the pre-clinical stage may be markedly improved.