wire localization

Full Definition

Wire localization is a pre-operative procedure where a thin, flexible wire is placed under imaging guidance (mammography, ultrasound, or MRI) to mark the exact location of non-palpable breast lesions. This technique enables surgeons to accurately target small or deep lesions during breast-conserving surgery. The wire serves as a guide to ensure complete excision of the abnormal tissue while minimizing the removal of healthy breast tissue. The procedure is typically performed on the day of surgery to prevent wire displacement.

Usage

Usage note: Specify the imaging modality used for guidance (mammographic, ultrasound-guided, etc.).

In Context

• "Mammographic wire localization was performed to mark the cluster of suspicious microcalcifications prior to lumpectomy." — Pre-operative procedure note
• "The pathologist confirmed clear margins around the wire localization site with no residual malignancy." — Pathology report