Neuroendoscopic biopsy of brain lesions: accuracy and complications

Abstract

OBJECT The authors conducted a study to analyze the accuracy of neuroendoscopic biopsies of ventricular and periventricular lesions and record any difficulties or complications of the neuroendoscopic biopsy procedure. METHODS A total of 50 patients with different diseases consecutively underwent endoscopic biopsy procedures. The biopsy result was considered diagnostic if the pathologist reported any specific finding on which clinicians could base decisions about treatment or observation. The biopsy result was referred to as accurate if the results matched results of a sample obtained later or if the treatment response and disease evolution were compatible with the diagnosis. The biopsy result was considered inaccurate if results showed any relevant differences from those of the later sample or if the patient's disease did not evolve as expected. Complications were recorded and compared with those found in a literature review. RESULTS For 2 patients, the procedure had to be terminated. The biopsy diagnostic rate was 89.6%, and the accuracy rate was 86%. Complications associated with the procedure were 3 hemorrhages (6%), 2 infections (4%), and 1 death (2%); no reoperations were needed. CONCLUSIONS Endoscopic biopsy seems to be an accurate procedure with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates.