[Computed tomography-guided diagnostic puncture in abdominal pathology]

Technological improvements (short-time acquisition and reconstruction, CT, spiral technique) together with better puncture material and a general trend towards less invasive surgical procedures have had a combined effect to a wider scope of applications for percutaneous punctures under CT-guidance. In this paper, we analyze and discuss recent data in the literature on puncture material, indications and results. The relevant choice of the needle model and its diameter, depending on the organ and suspected pathology, as well as the point of entry and the puncture track are key factors granting procedure safety, ambulatory use and good diagnostic results.