A method for determining the best entry point for a percutaneous
procedure, such as with a biopsy needle, comprises selecting first and
second arbitrary entry points on a patient; determining the three
dimensional (3-D) orientation of the needle at the first arbitrary entry
point for pointing the needle at the primary target; determining the 3-D
orientation of the needle at the first arbitrary entry point for pointing
the needle at the secondary target; determining the 3-D dimensional
orientation of the needle at the second arbitrary entry point for
pointing the needle at the primary target; determining the 3-D
orientation of the needle at the second arbitrary entry point for
pointing the needle at the secondary target; determining a 3-D line
representing the intersection of a first plane containing the first
arbitrary entry point, the primary target point, and the secondary target
point, and a second plane containing the second arbitrary entry point,
the primary target, and the secondary target point, whereby the 3-D line
provides a position and orientation for the needle for performing needle
biopsy of the primary target through the secondary target.