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A new method of margin evaluation in breast conservation surgery using an adjustable mould during fixation
S Ichihara1, H Suzuki, M Kasami
1Department of Pathology and Clinical Laboratories, Nagoya National Hospital, Nagoya, Japan. shu@mxs.mesh.ne.jp
Histopathology
|July 17, 2001
Summary
A new adjustable mould method for breast quadrantectomy specimens prevents distortion, ensuring accurate margin assessment. This technique reliably identifies positive margins, aiding precise re-excision for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Pathology
- Oncology
- Breast Cancer Research
Background:
- Accurate assessment of surgical margins in breast quadrantectomy is crucial for effective treatment.
- Specimen distortion during fixation can compromise the evaluation of resection margins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel method using an adjustable mould to maintain the three-dimensional integrity of breast specimens during fixation.
- To evaluate the reliability and efficiency of this new method for breast resection margin assessment.
Main Methods:
- Development and application of an adjustable mould for breast quadrantectomy specimens.
- Fixation of specimens using the mould to prevent distortion.
- Sequential slicing of fixed specimens for margin evaluation.
Main Results:
- The method was applied to 10 consecutive quadrantectomies (6 invasive duct carcinomas, 4 duct carcinoma in situ).
- The fixed specimen's precise configuration allowed for reliable margin assessment, separating it from tumor characterization.
- The new method demonstrated comparable reliability to inked margins, correctly identifying positive and negative margins in all cases.
Conclusions:
- The adjustable mould method is a reliable alternative to traditional inked margin assessment in breast quadrantectomy.
- This technique significantly reduces the number of tissue blocks required, particularly for invasive carcinomas.
- The method enhances accuracy in margin evaluation, is not influenced by tumor sampling extent, and facilitates precise identification of positive margins for targeted re-excision.
