Pre-surgical Breast Lesion Localization with Non-wire Devices: Information, Benefits, and Limitations

The radiologist’s role is integral in the diagnosis and preoperative management of breast cancer patients. The pre-surgical localization of non-palpable breast masses has been achieved using wire-guided devices for decades. Despite being widely regarded as the gold standard for their proven effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, wire-guided localization (WGL) techniques have been associated with several drawbacks. These drawbacks include patient discomfort, the possibility of displacement prior to resection, and the requirement for placement on the same day as surgery. This review aims to outline non-wire localization (NWL) devices and techniques available as alternatives to WGL, including their benefits and limitations.

No significant differences have been found with surgical outcomes between WGL and NWL. Between 2013 and 2018, the use of WGL has decreased from 75 to 32%, and the use of radioactive seed localization has increased from 16 to 61%.

A multidisciplinary approach that considers the patient, provider, and healthcare institution and current research on surgical outcomes must be utilized to determine the optimal course of action for preoperative localization of non-palpable breast masses.