Needle biopsy of tumors in the region of the third ventricle.

Twenty-six patients underwent needle biopsy of tumors in the area of the third ventricle. Operative mortality was zero, and the diagnosis was established in 23 of the 26 patients. There was no permanent neurological deterioration in any of the patients. Needle biopsy yields diagnostic information with small risk, and is particularly helpful in the posterior portion of the third ventricle where tumors are likely to be quite radiosensitive.