Is transvaginal core needle biopsy a safe method in diagnosis of ovarian cancer?

Abstract

Background: The optimal management of highly invasive ovarian cancer has changed from adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery to neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval debulking surgery. Generally, tissue specimen for definitive diagnosis of ovarian malignancy is necessary. However, abdominal wall metastasis is a complication, known as transabdominal ascites aspiration or percutaneous core needle biopsy. When neoadjuvant chemotherapy is indicated, transvaginal core needle biopsy under sonographic guidance provided enough tissue specimens. In addition, resection of most of upper vaginal wall during surgery prevents needle site metastasis. The aim of this study is to evaluate transvaginal core needle biopsy as a safe method for diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Methods: This clinical trial study was performed on patients who were candidate for neoadjuvant chemotherapy and were referred to gynecology oncology department of Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences during 2014 to 2015. Results: Twelve women with a presumptive diagnosis of stage III c or IV ovarian cancer were selected. Adequate sample was obtained by transvaginal core needle biopsy, and cancer diagnosis was confirmed in all cases. This procedure resulted in optimal debulking surgery in 2/3 of cases. Conclusions: Transvaginal core needle biopsy is a safe diagnostic method of ovarian cancer.