[Peroperative biopsy and cytologic diagnosis of pulmonary lesions]

Smears obtained by thin-needle aspiration and scrapings from 116 patients with pulmonary lesions were evaluated on operation after opening of the thoracic cavity. With regard to the macroscopic character of the process and clinical data it thus proved possible to differentiate 37 benign lesions and 79 malignant tumours which could be identified in the majority. The method proved to be rapid, reliable and economical, if aptly used and when the diagnosis is made by an experienced worker.