Needle‐Tip Localization for CT‐Guided Biopsies

Exact localization of the needle tip during CT-guided needle biopsy is important for accurate diagnosis. Using a phantom model we evaluated different methods for localization. The most reliable method was direct visualization of a distinct feature of the needle such as a notch near the needle tip. Visualization of a black shadowing artifact and review of adjacent CT images to the one used for needle tip placement were less reliable.