Trephine bone biopsy by radiologists: results of 73 procedures

Trephine bone biopsies were performed in 67 patients. Routine radiography, laminagraphy, and radioisotopic techniques were employed to determine areas of involvement and exact sites for biopsy. Sites were selected on the basis of accessibility, possible complications, and chances of recovering diagnostic material. The biopsy material was informative in 81% of patients. One controllable hemorrhage, one temporary sinus tract, a small pneumothorax requiring no therapy, and two benign vasovagal responses were the only complications. Widespread malignant disease and osteomyelitis, particularly disk-space infection, are the most suitable lesions for trephine biopsy.