Breast Needle Localization

Prior to a surgical breast biopsy or a lumpectomy procedure, breast needle localization may be undertaken for purposes of locating and marking the precise spot where a suspicious mass or group of cells exists as seen on an X-ray. The process may involve the surgeon’s use of ultrasound, mammographic or MRI guidance in order to direct a very small “guidewire” and possibly a small amount of dye into the location via a needle following introduction of a local anesthetic. A hook at the end of the guidewire helps keep it in place until such time as the operation occurs. A breast needle localization procedure typically takes up to an hour to perform, and is usually done in the radiology department. It is often followed by another mammogram to check whether the needle is correctly located or requires repositioning before going forward.