The diagnostic quality of needle brain biopsy specimens obtained with different sampling methods - Experimental study

Area of Science:

• Neuropathology
• Surgical Pathology
• Biopsy Techniques

Background:

• Accurate histopathological evaluation of brain tissue is crucial for diagnosis.
• Standard needle biopsy methods may impact tissue quality and diagnostic yield.
• Novel techniques are needed to optimize brain tissue sampling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of vacuum pressure, needle rotation, and needle type (Laitinen vs. Nashold) on brain biopsy specimen quality.
• To determine if these sampling methods cause tissue damage that challenges histopathological diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Eight hundred swine brain biopsy specimens were collected using Laitinen and Nashold needles.
• Sampling methods included inner cannula cutting and needle rotation at varying vacuum pressures (0-0.06 MPa).
• Specimen weight and Mair score (tissue quality) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Increased aspiration pressure correlated with higher biopsy sample weight.
• Needle rotation yielded larger samples than the standard method.
• The Laitinen needle produced larger samples and higher histopathological quality compared to the Nashold needle.
• Higher vacuum pressure and needle rotation improved tissue quality.
• No significant tissue damage was observed due to higher suction pressure or sampling methods.

Conclusions:

• Brain tissue samples for histopathological evaluation are improved by higher vacuum pressure, needle rotation, and the Laitinen needle.
• Optimized needle biopsy techniques enhance diagnostic quality without compromising tissue integrity.