[The percutaneous bone biopsy: in vitro study for comparison of bone biopsy needles]

The aim of this study was to assess the differences in ease of use and quality of samples of several bone biopsy needles in an animal test.

An evaluation of eight bone biopsy needles of different gauges was undertaken. With each needle, 5 biopsies of an animal bone (lumbal vertebral body of calf, pig and lamb) were performed and compared to each other. The subjective assessment of force to obtain a sample, ease of needle use and ease of sample removal were graded on a 5-point scale. Each biopsy specimen was measured before and after fixation and the gross state was evaluated. For evaluation of histopathological quality, width and degree of fragmentation were also evaluated on a scale.

The Somatex, Bone Marrow and Safe Cut 8 G and the Cardinal Health, Jamshidi 8 G needles were rated as being the easiest ones to use, while the Bloodline, Easy Trap 8 G and the RADI, Bonopty 15 G biopsy needles were rated as being the most difficult ones. Histological specimen quality was highest for the Somatex 8 G needles, the Cardinal Health, Jamshidi 8 G and the Bloodline, Easy Trap 8 G needles. The Inter.V, SnareLok 8 G and the RADI, Bonopty 15 G needles had the lowest yield. Furthermore, differences in length before and after fixation were recorded. The average decrease of core length after fixation was 18 %.

The bone biopsy needles tested here vary significantly in performance and quality of the histopathological specimen. Detailed knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of different needles could facilitate the decision for the selection of an appropriate instrument.