Comparison of needle core biopsy and fine-needle aspiration for diagnostic accuracy in musculoskeletal lesions.

Abstract Context.—Needle core biopsy has been reported to be the choice of biopsy for musculoskeletal tumors. Fine-needle aspiration, on the other hand, has been widely accepted for nonmusculoskeletal tumors, but is only used in selected medical centers for musculoskeletal tumors. While fine-needle aspiration appears to have advantages to needle core biopsy in the aspects of simplicity and cost, the diagnostic accuracy should be the most critical parameter in determining the choice of biopsy. However, few studies comparing the diagnostic accuracy of these 2 biopsy methods have been performed. Objective.—This study was designed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of fine-needle aspiration and needle core biopsy in musculoskeletal tumors. Design.—Prospective study was performed in patients aged 10 years or older. Diagnostic accuracy was compared in 50 consecutive concurrent needle core biopsies and fine-needle aspirations of musculoskeletal lesions. Results.—For primary musculoskeletal lesions, fine-needle a...