A prospective randomized study of two gauges of Biopty-cut needle in diagnosis of early breast cancer

122 patients with breast masses suspicious of malignancy were randomly allocated to core needle biopsy using 14 or 18 gauge needles in a Biopty-cut system. Sensitivity was 98% for the 14 gauge and 93% for the 18 gauge needles. Although the size of the needle did not significantly affect the results, the 14 gauge needle is more versatile and recommended for breast lesions.