ABSTRACT
Fine-needle biopsy techniques allow diagnostic samples to be obtained for pathologic assessment, but the techniques require skill and coordination between the surgeon and a trained cytopathologist in the preparation, handling, and interpretation of the small specimens. Preoperative preparation and planning are important in patients requiring intraocular biopsy. Fine-needle biopsy is especially useful in eyes with suspected metastatic carcinoma when there is no clear evidence of other metastatic disease or a primary source. The placement of the biopsy needle and the approach to the tumor depend on the ease of visualization and the lens status of the eye. Limbal approaches for anterior lesions are performed with viscoelastic maintenance of the anterior chamber and visualization through an operating microscope. Solid tumor biopsies are more difficult to perform, and require proper needle-tip placement visualization and control to obtain the sample and prevent complications.
