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Updated: Jun 12, 2026

In Vivo, Percutaneous, Needle Based, Optical Coherence Tomography of Renal Masses
Published on: March 30, 2015
Imaging-guided percutaneous renal biopsy: rationale and approach
Raul N Uppot1, Mukesh G Harisinghani, Debra A Gervais
1Department of Radiology, Division of Abdominal Imaging & Intervention, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA. ruppot@partners.org
Imaging-guided percutaneous renal biopsy is a valuable tool for diagnosing kidney diseases. Its history, indications, and techniques are crucial for effective patient management, especially with increasing renal masses.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Renal masses are increasingly discovered incidentally.
- Percutaneous ablation is a growing treatment for renal cell carcinoma.
- Immunohistochemistry techniques have advanced significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the history of imaging-guided percutaneous renal biopsies.
- To outline indications and rationale for the procedure.
- To describe the approach to performing these biopsies.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of historical context and evolution of techniques.
- Review of clinical indications for renal biopsy.
- Description of imaging guidance and procedural steps.
Main Results:
- Imaging-guided percutaneous renal biopsy is a well-established diagnostic procedure.
- The technique allows for tissue acquisition for histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis.
- It plays a key role in the management of various renal diseases.
Conclusions:
- Imaging-guided renal biopsy remains essential for evaluating renal diseases.
- Its utility is underscored by the rise in incidental renal masses and advanced treatment options.
- Continued use supports accurate diagnosis and patient management.
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