Revista chilena de cirugía
versión On-line ISSN 0718-4026
BESA C, CECILIA et al. Ultrasound guided needle biopsy of the spleen. Rev Chil Cir [online]. 2010, vol.62, n.3, pp. 246-250. ISSN 0718-4026. http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0718-40262010000300007.
Background: Needle biopsies of the spleen were avoided due to the fear of bleeding in a highly vas-cularized organ. However their safety, even using 18 gauge needles, has been demonstrated. Aim: To report the experience with ultrasound guided needle biopsies of the spleen. Material and Methods: Retrospective review of records of ultrasound guided biopsies of the spleen using Tru-cut needles, performed between 2005 and 2009. Results: Thirteen procedures performed in 12 patients were identified. A specific diagnosis was achieved in nine (69%) procedures (lymphoma in four, melanoma in 2, sarcoma in 1, extremedullary erythropoiesis in one and splenic cryptococcosis in one. Two patients with negative results were subjected to a new biopsy, which yielded the diagnosis of lymphoma. A third patient was studied elsewhere, finding a malignant tumor. Two patients had complications, one had a vagal reaction and other had a perisplenic hematoma without clinical repercussion. Conclusions: Ultrasound guided needle biopsy of the spleen is a safe and useful procedure.
Palabras clave : Spleen; needle biopsy; lymphoma.