Sonographically guided puncture of intra-abdominal and retro-peritoneal masses for cytological diagnostic is widely employed. However, processing of cytological material may result in artifacts and in the case of certain malignant tumours, of benign tumours or diffuse organ changes, cytology is only relatively reliable. Special experience on the part of the investigato is therefore required. Hence, in far-reaching therapeutic decisions such as operation, cytostatic therapy or radiotherapy, diagnosis based on histological findings is preferred. Preliminary experience with a new type of fine needle (Schneidbiopsiekanüle) suitable for obtaining histological material is presented.