Computerized tomography—guided percutaneous transforaminodiscal biopsy sampling of vertebral body lesions

Object The posterolateral approach is the common route for obtaining percutaneous biopsy samples in lumbar and thoracic vertebral bodies (VBs). This procedure, however, is associated with the risk of complications. Because of this, the authors devised a new method for percutaneous biopsy sampling of VB lesions. Methods The percutaneous computerized tomography (CT)—guided transforaminodiscal biopsy procedure was undertaken in 20 patients during a 10-month period. The VBs in 18 cases were successfully accessed using this technique. There were no procedure-related complications. Conclusions Transforaminodiscal CT-guided spinal biopsy procedure is a safe and effective method for accessing VB lesions. It is possible to obtain a biopsy sample in the major part of the VB. This technique is a good alternative to the standard posterolateral approach.