The factors that have a bearing on the diagnostic yield are as
- Nature of Lesion:
The nature of the lesion has a bearing on
the diagnostic yield. The malignancy can be diagnosed by
cytological evaluation. However, you need tissue for a definitive
diagnosis of a benign lesion. The usual yield for tissue is only
50%. The diagnostic yield for malignant lesions are closer to 90%. However, the yield may be closer to 50% for benign lesions.
- Size of Lesion:
The size of the lesion is important. The
diagnostic yield is higher with larger lesions.
- Depth from Chest Wall:
Central lesions have a lower diagnostic
yield compared to peripheral lesions.
- Size of Needle:
The larger the needle, the higher the
diagnostic yield. However, you have to balance this advantage with
the risk of complications.
With experience, the diagnostic yield