Needle Localization

Needle Localization is a pre-operative procedure performed to guide a Surgeon in locating an exact area of the breast for removal and study. It is performed in the mammography department with a certified mammography technologist and a board-certified Radiologist with specialized training in mammography procedures.

How do I prepare for a Needle Localization?

Please dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Since this is a pre-operative procedure, you will need to adhere to the preparations for a surgical procedure, which include nothing to eat or drink after midnight.

Mammography Services: Mammography Digital Mammography Stereotactic Breast Biopsy Needle Localization Procedure Breast Ultrasound

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What is the procedure for a Needle Localization?

1. You will be asked to arrive in the outpatient pre-op department 2 hours before your needle localization procedure. During this time, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. The nursing staff will prepare you for your procedure, which will include obtaining a medical history and starting an IV.
2. When ready, you will be transported via wheelchair to the mammography department. Once in the privacy of the mammography room, the mammography technologist will explain the procedure and answer any questions. You will not be sedated for needle localization.
3. During the procedure, you will be sitting in an armless chair. A mammogram machine is used to locate the area in question, using your previous mammograms as a guide. This set-up and preparation time will include taking a few mammogram x-rays for comparison with your previous exams to ensure the correct area is properly identified.
4. Once the site is identified, the area is cleaned and sterilized. It is very important that you try to remain as still as possible during this time. The Radiologist will numb the site and then thread a small, specialized, hollow needle to the desired area. Mammograms will be taken in intervals to ensure that the needle is reaching the site as desired.
5. Once the Radiologist is satisfied the needle has reached the site in question, a small wire is threaded through the hollow needle to the site, and then the hollow needle is removed, leaving the wire in place. The wire will protrude from the breast. Additional mammograms are taken once the wire is in place to verify correct alignment. This wire will remain in the breast until the operation, as this wire is what guides the surgeon to the area of the breast to be removed.
6. When the procedure is finished, the mammography technologist will carefully secure the exterior portion of the wire and prepare you for transport back to the pre-op area. Once you return to the pre-op area, you will be taken to surgery and the desired area will be removed under anesthesia. The removed tissue is taken to the laboratory department and analyzed by a Pathologist.

Aftercare

You will be given instructions by the OR staff and your surgeon for care of your breast after the procedure.

Results

A Pathologist will perform the analysis of your tissue. If you have questions about your results, please contact your surgeon. Results are usually available in 3-5 business days