A novel technique for retrieval of a broken biopsy needle

Skeletal Radiol. 2020 Feb;49(2):307-312. doi: 10.1007/s00256-019-03304-y. Epub 2019 Sep 2.

Abstract

A broken needle is a rare complication of bone biopsy. We describe an easily applied technique of retrieval of a retained biopsy needle fragment using a cannulated drill typically used for internal fixation of femoral neck fractures. This approach allows for removal under moderate conscious sedation and can be performed by a radiologist using fluoroscopic or CT-fluoroscopic guidance in the radiology suite.

Keywords: Ablation; Bone biopsy; Broken needle; Hardware removal; Needle removal; Radiofrequency.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Biopsy, Needle / instrumentation
  • Bone and Bones / diagnostic imaging
  • Bone and Bones / surgery
  • Conscious Sedation / methods
  • Equipment Failure*
  • Female
  • Fluoroscopy / methods
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Foreign Bodies / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Needles
  • Radiography, Interventional / methods*
  • Tibia / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tibia / pathology
  • Tibia / surgery*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods