Image-guided puncture for differentiating malignant from benign peritoneal lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Question The diagnosis of peritoneal lesions remains challenging due to the inherent complexity and invasiveness of traditional diagnostic laparoscopy, as well as overlapping imaging features of routine imaging examinations. Findings Image-guided puncture is a minimally invasive and safe technique with high diagnostic accuracy, irrespective of the imaging modality used, the puncture method, or the type of peritoneal lesion. Clinical relevance Image-guided puncture is recognized as a safe, minimally invasive, and highly sensitive diagnostic tool, which can reduce patient discomfort compared to diagnostic laparoscopy. In most clinical scenarios, it represents a reliable and effective alternative to this invasive procedure.