Needle Localization

Needle Localization

Needle localization is used to find a breast abnormality that can be seen on a mammogram or ultrasound, but cannot be felt. By using mammography or ultrasound, the radiologist can find the abnormality for the surgeon. This is like a biopsy. It will happen on the same day as surgery.

What you can expect:

• Your breast will be cleaned.
• You may get a small amount of local anesthetic (numbing medication).
• The radiologist will insert a thin needle into your breast to reach the abnormal area.
• We will take a mammogram to confirm the needle position.
• The radiologist will remove the thin needle, leaving a thread-like wire in place.
• Then, you will be taken to an operating room or a procedure room for your surgery.

Next, we usually X-ray breast tissue to make sure we removed the abnormality. Then, a pathologist will look at it closely and send the results to your physician.