Practical aspects of mammographic-pathological correlation: experience with needle localization

Preoperative mammographic needle localization of a lesion and specimen radiography facilitate accurate excisional biopsy of a nonpalpable breast lesion. The pathological diagnosis must be correlated with the mammographic indication for biopsy to ensure optimal patient care. We describe our approach to pathological correlation and outline the practical aspects and potential pitfalls of our practice. Optimal mammographic-pathological correlation requires cooperation between radiologist, surgeon and pathologist.