Diagnostic utility of fine-needle sampling without aspiration: a prospective study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pathology
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a common diagnostic tool for palpable masses.
• Limitations of FNAC include potential for patient discomfort and tissue artifact.
• Alternative sampling methods are being explored to improve patient experience and diagnostic yield.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficiency and diagnostic accuracy of fine-needle sampling without aspiration (FNS) against conventional FNAC.
• To evaluate FNS for cost-effectiveness, patient comfort, and ease of sampling.

Main Methods:

• 100 consecutive patients with 109 palpable masses underwent fine-needle sampling without aspiration (FNS).
• The adequacy of obtained material was compared between FNS and conventional fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC).
• Diagnostic accuracy of FNS was correlated with FNAC and histopathology findings.

Main Results:

• FNS demonstrated an 80% efficiency in obtaining adequate material, comparable to FNAC.
• Diagnostic accuracy of FNS correlated well with FNAC and histopathology.
• Malignant lesions were sampled more easily with FNS; anatomic site did not influence yield.
• FNS was found to be more cost-effective, less traumatic, and relatively painless compared to FNAC.

Conclusions:

• Fine-needle sampling without aspiration (FNS) is an effective and comparable alternative to FNAC for palpable masses.
• FNS offers advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, reduced patient discomfort, and fewer artifacts.
• The technique is suitable for various anatomical sites, including sensitive areas.