Exploration of the Optimal Shape for Bone Tumour Biopsy.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND/AIM: Biopsy hole for bone tumour biopsy may cause pathological fractures. This study aimed to identify the optimal shape of bone tumour biopsy hole using the rabbit femoral head compression test to avoid pathological fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A compression test with no defect was performed to identify bone fracture location. Three shapes of biopsy holes (same size) were made artificially. Sixty rabbit femurs were randomly divided (n=15 each) into control (no defect), Shape 1 (round), Shape 2 (square), and Shape 3 (rectangular) groups. RESULTS: Twelve out of fifteen femurs were fractured on the femoral shaft; the femoral shaft was targeted for the compression test. Compressive maximum load and fracture energy were significantly higher for Shape 3 than for the other Shapes. CONCLUSION: A rectangular biopsy hole helps minimise reduction in bone strength. The defect width may be related to fragility of the affected bone.