Biopsy of focal hepatic lesions. Comparison of 18 and 22 gauge needles.

One hundred consecutive patients underwent CT-guided percutaneous biopsy of focal non-cystic hepatic lesions using 18 and 22 gauge needles. The overall accuracy rate was 98% for the 18 gauge needle (92 true positives, 6 true negatives, 2 false negatives) and 84% for the 22 gauge needle (79 true positives, 5 true negatives, 4 false negatives, 12 with inadequate cellular material). There were no complications with either needle. The major advantage of the 18 gauge needle was its more consistent retrieval of adequate cellular material. CT with bolus contrast enhancement and rapid-sequence scanning facilitates avoidance of hypervascular lesions and hemangiomas, thereby adding to the safety of the technique.