Computed tomography-guided aspiration cytologic examination in head and neck lesions

Aspiration cytologic examination, as distinguished from needle biopsy, may be performed with 22- to 25-gauge needles with an extremely low complication rate. For deep-seated lesions, computed tomography guidance is helpful to ensure that the needle tip is correctly within the tumor mass and that vital structures have been avoided. Lesions of the skull base, nasopharyngeal region, and infratemporal fossae are readily accessible with this approach.