specimen radiography
Immediate X-ray imaging of surgically excised breast tissue to confirm removal of targeted lesion.
Full Definition
Specimen radiography is the immediate X-ray examination of surgically excised breast tissue performed in the operating room or pathology department to confirm adequate removal of the target lesion. This technique is particularly important for non-palpable lesions, microcalcifications, or wire-localized tumors where visual confirmation of complete excision is not possible. The specimen radiograph is compared to pre-operative imaging to ensure the area of concern has been included in the excised tissue. If the target lesion is not visible in the specimen, additional tissue may need to be removed before the surgical procedure is completed.
Usage
Usage note: Document correlation between specimen findings and pre-operative imaging.
In Context
- "Specimen radiography confirmed inclusion of the wire-localized microcalcifications within the excised tissue." — Intraoperative note
- "The specimen radiograph showed incomplete removal of calcifications, prompting additional excision from the posterior margin." — Surgical procedure note