CT-guided percutaneous biopsy of thoracic and lumbar spine: A new coaxial technique.

Herein we describe the technique of CT-guided lumbar or thoracic bone biopsy performed with a larger bore needle and coaxial system. The use of the external sheath cannula as a coaxial system led to an accurate diagnosis in all 19 patients who underwent the procedure. Bleeding at the biopsy site occurred in two patients and was controlled by insertion of Gelfoam. No other complications were encountered. We suggest that our procedure is more effective, reliable, safe, and rapid than the traditional technique.