Aspiration cytology of soft-tissue tumors. The 10-year experience at an orthopedic oncology center.

Since 1972, we have included fine-needle aspiration cytology in the pre-operative evaluation of soft tissue lesions referred to our Orthopedic Oncology Group. In 365 consecutive patients the cytodiagnosis was correctly malignant in 66/74 tumors and correctly benign in 260/271 lesions; cytology was non-diagnostic in four sarcomas and 16 benign lesions. The final pre-operative diagnosis should be based on all pre-operative data to minimize the effect of any misjudgement as regards cytodiagnosis; only two of the 19 false cytodiagnoses were of consequence for the patient. We conclude that aspiration cytology used in this way is a valuable adjunct to determine the further management of soft tissue tumors.