Triplicate renal biopsies using core-cutting needles of different gauges in dogs

Abstract Renal biopsy plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of renal disease, and core needle biopsy remains one of the most important investigation tools for this purpose in dogs. The size and quality of the biopsy material are likely to be important factors in achieving an accurate diagnosis. The aim of this study was to compare the success and complication rates of renal biopsy procedures performed in triplicates using needles of different gauges during open surgery. RESULTS: One hundred fifty-six biopsy samples were obtained from 52 dogs. Renal biopsies were performed using semi-automated biopsy needles of three different gauges, and subjected to histopathological examination and evaluation of complications. The 14G needle produced more severe hematomas than the 18G and 16G needles ( P = 0.019 ). The longest post-biopsy microscopic hematuria observed ceased within five days after the procedure. Microscopic hematuria lasted longer in animals subjected to biopsy using 18G needles. There were no significant differences between needle gauges regarding macroscopic hematuria and number of erythrocytes in the urine immediately after biopsy. The numbers of glomeruli retrieved using 14G (29.8±26.5) or 16G (27.1±14.6) needles differed from those retrieved using 18G needles (17.5±9.3). CONCLUSION: The three needle gauges tested in this study are safe for use in renal biopsy using a semi-automated biopsy gun. The thicker needles provide more glomeruli, and, therefore, are more useful for diagnostic purposes. The use of 14G needles may be associated with more complications, and the 16G needle appears to offer the best compromise between diagnostic usefulness and biopsy-related complications.