Percutaneous fine-needle aspiration biopsy of pancreatic masses was performed in 34 patients. Biopsies were performed with a 22 or 23-gage, spinal-type needle under fluoroscopic guidance. Correct results were obtained in 73% of the patients including 21 patients with pancreatic carcinoma. No complications occurred. The primary indication for aspiration biopsy was to document the presence of malignancy and avoid a diagnostic laparotomy in patients considered to be unresectable.