Radiology Practice Test

Which imaging technique is commonly used to guide needle biopsies?

1. CT scan

2. X-ray

3. Ultrasound

4. MRI

The correct answer is: Ultrasound

Ultrasound is commonly used to guide needle biopsies because it provides real-time imaging that allows practitioners to visualize the area being targeted. This capability is crucial when attempting to insert a needle accurately into a specific lesion or tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding structures. Ultrasound utilizes sound waves to create images of the body's internal structures, making it safe and effective for dynamic assessment. Additionally, ultrasound can often be performed at the bedside, enhancing accessibility for practitioners and patients alike. It helps in identifying and characterizing lesions, evaluates the relationship of the target tissue with adjacent anatomical structures, and allows for immediate monitoring of the needle placement during the procedure. While CT scans and MRIs also offer high-resolution imaging, they are not typically as willfully utilized during the actual biopsy procedure due to factors like longer preparation times, the need for patient movement to the imaging area, and potential exposure to ionizing radiation in the case of CT. X-ray imaging lacks the necessary detail for real-time guidance and is generally not employed for this purpose. Therefore, ultrasound's attributes make it the preferred choice for guiding needle biopsies in clinical practice.