Stereotaxic biopsy of cerebral lesions. Results based on a series of 250 cases

With the help of modern computer-assisted imaging techniques, direct evidence of intracerebral lesions can be provided earlier and in more detail, often before the patient begins to exhibit symptoms. In asymptomatic cases, however, it is often difficult to establish an indication for a certain therapy. The choice of treatment chiefly depends on the histological nature of the lesion. Even in the age of computer-assisted imaging techniques, the specific diagnosis can only be made under the microscope. CT-guided stereotactic biopsy is a valuable and safe diagnostic tool for classifying intracranial lesions. It provides the basis for selecting the appropriate therapy, whether it be surgery, radiotherapy, or conservative treatment. We present a series of 250 stereotactic biopsies. The indications, technique, complications and limits of the method are discussed, as well as the diagnostic yield which achieved 97.6% in our series.