Clinical application of CT-guided percutaneous core cutting-needle biopsy in the recurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma at the parapharyngeal space after radiotherapy

AIM: To explore clinical application of CT guided percutaneous core cutting needle biopsy (PCNB) in the recurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma at the parapharyngeal space after radiotherapy. METHODS: From August, 1997 to July, 2002, 32 cases, in whom the recurrence or fibrosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma at the parapharyngeal space after radiotherapy could not be diagnosed by CT, MRT or 18 FDG PET examinations, were given CT guided PCNB to observe the complication of PCNB and pathologic diagnosis coincidence rate of the clinical follow up. RESULTS: Coincidence rate of pathologic diagnosis and clinical follow up was 100%. The complication of CT guided PCNB was ache at the point of puncture without any injury of blood vessel and nerves. CONCLUSION: CT guided PCNB in the recurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma at the parapharyngeal space after radiotherapy is feasible, successful, and safe.