Value of CT-guided percutaneous biopsy before operation in the treatment of spinal tumors

Objective:To make a definite pathologic diagnosis of spine lesions by the use of CT guided percutaneous biopsy before operation,and evaluate the effects of this method. Methods: 292 cases of spine lesions whose preliminary diagnoses were spinal tumors including 179 males and 113 females ranging in age from 2-83 years underwent CT guided percutaneous biopsy before operation. The procedure was compared with other diagnostic methods. By combining pathologic diagnosis with films data and clinical characters, the comprehensive treatment programs were formulated Results:271 of 292 cases had definite histological findings. The accuracy rate was 92.81% and the false positive rate 1.71%. 114 cases were treated operatively and their final pathological findings were 95.61% of what preoperative biopsy showed. 271 cases were considered accurate on 37.7 months follow up,15 cases were unavailable at follow up. No complications occurred. Conclusion:The diagnosis and treatment of spinal tumors are usually difficult,however,definitive histological diagnosis can be obtained through CT guided percutaneous biopsy. This procedure plays an important role in clinical treatment.