Diagnostic Test
Pre-Surgical Lesion Localisation (Wire/Harpoon)
Description
Stereotactic tumour localisation is an essential pre-operative procedure when the surgeon must remove a non-palpable breast lesion. Under stereotactic (mammographic) or ultrasound guidance, the radiologist places a metal wire or magnetic marker in the lesion. This marker guides the surgeon during the procedure, ensuring complete removal with clear margins and minimising the removal of healthy tissue. CRMama coordinates directly with surgical teams at Madrid hospitals to optimise timing and guarantee the safety of the process.
Practical Information
30-45 minutes
Follow the surgeon's instructions. Fast if instructed by the surgeon. The procedure is performed on the same day as surgery. Inform us if you take aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. Check with your doctor first: do not stop anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs on your own — this must be indicated by the professional who prescribed them.
Price according to health insurance / private patient
Indications and Recommendations
- Non-palpable breast lesions detected on mammography or ultrasound
- Microcalcifications requiring surgical removal
- Lesions diagnosed as malignant or high-risk
- Pre-surgical coordination in specialist centres in Madrid
Risks and Complications
- Pain or discomfort at the insertion point
- Local bruising
- Migration or displacement of the wire before surgery (uncommon)
- Vasovagal reaction (dizziness)
- Low-dose radiation exposure when stereotactic guidance is used
- Exceptional need for repositioning
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the breast wire and what is it used for?
The breast wire is a fine metal wire with a small hook at its tip that is placed under image guidance inside the lesion to be removed. The surgeon follows the wire's path to locate exactly the lesion during the procedure, ensuring complete and precise removal without removing unnecessary healthy tissue.
Is placement of the breast wire painful?
Wire placement is performed under local anaesthesia. Only the initial anaesthesia injection is felt. The procedure is brief (about 15-20 minutes) and well-tolerated. A slight pressure or discomfort may be felt, but intense pain is rare.
What happens after stereotactic localisation?
After wire placement, control mammograms are taken to confirm its correct position. These images are sent to the surgeon to plan the procedure. The patient goes directly to hospital for surgery, which is performed the same day.
Is there an alternative to the wire for breast localisation?
Yes. At CRMama we also use magnetic markers and echogenic clips that can be placed in advance (days before surgery), avoiding the stress of coordinating the procedure on the same day. Ask your radiologist which technique is most appropriate for your case.