Magnetic Seed Localization in Breast and Axilla
What are seeds in the breast and axilla?
In the context of breast cancer treatment, “seeds” refer to small implants or localization markers placed in the breast or axilla to mark a suspicious tumor or lymph node. These markers help surgeons and radiation oncologists precisely locate the area that needs to be removed or treated.
What are these markers used for?
The main uses of these markers are:
- Precise localization of non-palpable tumors: Allows for precise localization of tumors that are too small or deep to be felt during surgery.
- Guidance for biopsy: Facilitates targeted biopsies of specific areas of the breast or axilla.
- Surgical planning: Helps plan the extent of surgery, ensuring that all affected tissue is removed.
- Guidance for radiotherapy: Allows for precise targeting of radiation therapy to the target area, minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding tissues.
- Localization of sentinel lymph nodes: Used to locate the sentinel lymph node, which is the first lymph node to which breast cancer spreads.
Benefits of high technology in localization markers
The placement of these markers benefits from high-tech imaging techniques:
- Image guidance: Marker placement is performed under image guidance, such as ultrasound or mammography, allowing for millimeter precision.
- Minimally invasive: The procedure is minimally invasive, reducing the risk of complications and recovery time.
- Greater precision: Image guidance allows for more precise marker placement compared to manual techniques.
How is the procedure performed?
The procedure for placing these markers generally proceeds as follows:
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Preparation:
No special preparation is required for this test. You will be asked to inform your doctor if you are taking any anticoagulant medications or if you have an allergy to any metal.
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During the test:
You will sit or lie down, depending on the location of the area to be marked. The skin will be cleaned with an antiseptic, and local anesthesia will be administered to minimize pain. Using image guidance (ultrasound or mammography), the radiologist will insert a fine needle through the skin to the target area. The marker (“seed”) will be placed through the needle. The procedure lasts approximately 30-60 minutes.
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After the test:
The needle will be removed, and pressure will be applied to the area to stop any bleeding. You will be given instructions on how to care for the area and what signs of infection to watch for.
Recommendations for the test
Remember that it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure the quality of the study and your comfort:
- Inform your doctor: If you are taking any anticoagulant medications or if you have an allergy to any metal, inform your doctor.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and a supportive bra after the procedure.
- Aftercare: Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for the area and what signs of infection to watch for.
Are there any risks?
The placement of these markers is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it has some minimal risks to consider:
- Bleeding or hematoma: There may be minor bleeding or bruising at the needle insertion site.
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the needle insertion site.
- Marker displacement: In rare cases, the marker may shift from its original position.
- Allergic reaction: If you have an allergy to any metal, an allergic reaction to the marker may occur.
For your test to proceed smoothly, we ask that you arrive in advance of your scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will provide you with the Informed Consent form, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
