Seed or Wire Localization
Localization is performed when an abnormal area previously identified through breast imaging or biopsy needs to be removed through a surgical excision. To assist your surgeon in removing the tissue, a radiologist will mark the area by inserting a special seed or wire into your breast.
The procedure involves two steps: the first is the localization performed at The Breast Center by a board-certified breast imaging radiologist (medical doctor); the second is the surgical excision performed at the hospital by your surgeon.
– Your insurance card and a valid photo i.d.
Please arrive 5-10 minutes early to complete registration.
-Follow any pre-operative instructions that you have already been given by your surgeon.
-Wear the clothing of your choice. You will change into a gown prior to the procedure.
-Please let us know about any of the following:
- Pregnancy, known or possible
- If you are a nursing mother
- Allergies or sensitivities to any substances or drugs
A seed or wire localization typically takes 30-60 minutes.
You will come to the Breast Center of Suburban Imaging. After registration, you will change into a gown. Numbing medicine will be injected into your breast at the site of the tissue to be removed.
During a seed localization, the radiologist uses imaging equipment for guidance to place a special seed into the breast tissue. The seed is about the size of a grain of rice and contains a very low dose of radioactive material. A transparent dressing will be applied to your breast. You will not be able to see or feel the seed.
During a wire localization, the radiologist uses imaging equipment for guidance to place a wire into the breast tissue. The wire will be inserted using a very fine gauge needle. The wire will stick out of your breast, but will be secured by a bandage and medical tape.
A gentle mammogram will be performed before you leave so that the surgeon has a picture of your breast containing the seed or wire. This will help guide surgery, as well.
If your surgeon has requested, you will be given another injection that will help the surgeon identify lymph nodes that will be removed.
The seed/wire will remain in your breast until the surgeon removes it. Keep the transparent dressing/bandage in place; the dressing will be removed by the surgeon. Follow any additional pre-operative instructions that you have been given.
If you must cancel your surgery, please call the Breast Center Nurse at (763) 795-0704, even if you have not had the seed or wire implanted.
