Novel Percutaneous Port Creation for Cervical Spine Biopsy

The complex anatomy of the neck presents several challenges for cervical spine biopsy. This includes critical structures, such as the airway, aerodigestive tract, nerves, arteries and veins. While there may be access for a small gauge needle system, safety may become a concern when using larger gauge systems, especially bone biopsy devices with rotating drill pieces. We present a series of 8 cases using a technique which involves initial small gauge needle access followed by placement of a tract sheath using readily available equipment. The sheath provides access for the biopsy device and allows multiple passes, enhancing the feasibility and safety of cervical spine bone biopsies, in particular from the anterior-lateral approach, which may otherwise require complex surgical dissections.