A comparative needle study: EUS-FNA procedures using the HD ProCore(™) and EchoTip(®) 22-gauge needle types

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Ultrasound
• Cytopathology

Background:

• Needle selection for endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) impacts sample quality.
• The HD ProCore™ beveled needle offers core biopsy capabilities alongside aspiration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the diagnostic yield and efficiency of a 22-gauge beveled EUS-FNA needle against a standard 22-gauge needle.
• To evaluate cytological parameters, cell block adequacy, and procedural efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study of 18 patients using the HD ProCore™ beveled needle versus 18 patients using a standard 22-gauge needle for EUS-FNA.
• Assessment of cytological smears and cell blocks for cellularity and diagnostic material.
• Review of records for sample adequacy, number of passes, and procedure duration.

Main Results:

• Both needles yielded similar results in cytology parameters, cell block adequacy, and diagnostic accuracy.
• The beveled needle group required fewer passes (2.11) to achieve adequacy compared to the standard needle group (2.94, P=0.03).
• No significant difference in procedure duration or reported complications was observed.

Conclusions:

• The beveled EUS-FNA needle is a diagnostically comparable alternative to standard needles.
• A trend towards improved per-pass adequacy suggests the beveled needle may enhance efficiency.
• Further studies are warranted to confirm the improved per-pass adequacy of the beveled needle.