CT-Guided Transthoracic Needle Biopies – The reality in a Portuguese Hospital

<bold>Introduction:</bold> CT-guided transthoracic needle biopsies (CT-TTNB) are crucial for diagnosing thoracic lesions, offering essential histological insights. The balance between their diagnostic yield and complication risks is a significant concern. <bold>Methods:</bold> We conducted a retrospective analysis in 2023, reviewing all CT-TTNB patients. <bold>Aim:</bold> The purpose was to verify the diagnostic yield and complication rates of CT-TTNB. <bold>Results:</bold> Among 117 procedures in 102 patients (57% male, mean age 69.9 years), 15% required repeat biopsies due to inadequate samples or negative histology. Tru-cut needles were used in all cases. Diagnostic outcomes were conclusive in 85% of cases, with neoplasia (77 cases; lung adenocarcinoma constituting 57% of them), metastasis (15), tuberculosis (2), post-radiation changes (3), interstitial alterations (4), and unspecified findings (1). Complications were noted in 32.5% of procedures, with pneumothorax being the most common (61% of complications), requiring hospitalization in only 4 cases. Hemoptysis occurred in 15 cases, 60% self-limited. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> CT-TTNB exhibits high diagnostic value, but the 15% rate of non-diagnostic procedures highlights the need for improved sampling techniques. Despite a significant complication rate, most were manageable, reinforcing the need for vigilant patient monitoring. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA1661/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>