Percutaneous biopsy of carcinoma of the pancreas guided by angiography

Histologic verification of the angiographic diagnosis of carcinoma of the pancreas may be achieved by percutaneous, transperitoneal fine-needle aspiration biopsy. The method was used in conjunction with the angiographic procedure in 29 patients with tumors of varying size down to 3 centimeters in diameter. Positive diagnosis was obtained in 22. Complications were not encountered. Since the method is simple and harmless it is recommended whenever histologic verification is desired.