Comparison of Two Endoscopic Biopsic Needles for Pancreatic Tumors

This observational study compared quality of histological sampling of pancreatic EUS-FNB with the 20-gauge Procore® and 22-gauge Acquire® needles. In total, 68 patients were recruited. Histological diagnosis was achieved and a histological core biopsy was obtained in 82% of patients (28/34) in the 20-gauge Procore® group and 97% of patients (33/34) in the 22-gauge Acquire® group (P=0.1). Core biopsy specimens obtained were significantly longer with the 22-gauge Acquire® needle with a mean cumulative length of tissue core biopsies per needle pass of 4,33±3,46mm vs. 7,9±4,35mm for the 20-gauge Procore® (P\<0,01). Reproducibility of this simple histological criterion was validated in intra and inter-observer.