Consultations and surgeries for breast tumors using a localization guide

Surgical removal of breast tumors is technically challenging in some cases – especially when the tumor is located in deeper structures, has a small size, or is not palpable. In such situations, a localization guide (so-called wire, hook-wire) is used, which precisely marks the location of the lesion in the breast.

What is a localization guide?

A localization guide is a thin wire that is inserted into the breast under ultrasound or mammographic guidance. It marks the tumor or suspicious lesion and facilitates its precise removal by the surgeon.

Advantages of surgery with localization guide

• Enables precise removal of non-palpable or small lesions
• Preserves healthy breast tissue
• Increases the chance of complete tumor excision
• Minimizes the need for repeat surgery
• Improves cosmetic results

Indications for surgery with guide

• Non-palpable tumors detected during screening mammography or ultrasound
• Microcalcifications suspicious for malignancy
• Residual lesions after previous biopsy
• Need for precise targeting before breast-conserving surgery

Procedure course

1. Preoperative localization – radiologist inserts the guide into the lesion under imaging guidance
2. Surgical procedure – surgeon removes the tumor along with the guide and safety margin of healthy tissue
3. Histological examination – collected material is examined to confirm diagnosis and radicality of the procedure

Breast tumor operations using localization guides are among modern, precise and gentle procedures in breast surgery. They allow safe removal of even very small or hidden lesions and represent the standard in breast-conserving procedures.