Diagnosis: Novel anti-seeding technology to prevent dissemination of tumor cells after a fine-needle aspiration biopsy.

摘要

A biopsy can provide a conclusive diagnosis of suspected malignancy. However, tumor-cell dissemination is a recognized complication that can occur during the biopsy procedure, which could be a concern if the tumor is aggressive. To prevent this potential complication, Hans Wiksell and colleagues have developed an anti-seeding technique that denatures tumor cells in the needle track. The device consists of a control console and a specially designed anti-seeding needle. "A miniaturized accelerometer is used to detect the needle movements, triggering computer-controlled energy pulses," explains Wiksell. Radiofrequency pulses are delivered to the tissue directly surrounding the needle as it is passed through the lesion and its blood vessels.